Andy Cohen admits he did not see Vicki Gunvalson’s future as the face of “The Real Housewives of Orange County” coming.
As RHOC prepares to return for its milestone 20th season, Andy reflected on the original cast member who helped create the blueprint for an entire reality TV franchise. Although Vicki eventually became one of the most recognizable stars in Bravo history, Andy told The New York Times that she was not necessarily the person he expected to still be watching two decades later.
“I don’t know that in season 1 we would’ve put all our money on Vicki being the housewife whose story we’re still telling,” Andy said. “As much as her life has changed, she has not changed.”
Vicki Gunvalson Became the Blueprint for a Bravo Housewife
Vicki has shared nearly every part of her life since RHOC premiered in 2006, including her career, divorce, heartbreak, relationships, a major cancer scandal, and changing friendships.
According to Vicki, she has lasted because she never tried to become someone else for the cameras.
“Some people feel like they have to do a different personality when they’re on,” she said. “I don’t, because I can see right through it.”
Her willingness to show the good and bad parts of her life became a defining part of the franchise.
“I’m a crier, so I’m very emotional and I try to stuff it, but then it wouldn’t be me, you know?” Vicki shared. “So I just let it all hang out and see where it goes.”
Andy summed up Vicki’s unexpected impact by noting that for 20 years, “the world has been reflected through this unlikely insurance agent in Orange County.”
After several seasons away from full-time status and appearances as a “friend of,” Vicki is officially back for the milestone season.
“The Real Housewives of Orange County” season 20 premieres Thursday, July 9, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Bravo.
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