The ultimate guide to The Real Housewives: From the chaos of New York to the twists and turns of Salt Lake City
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The Real Housewives: a reality TV show defined by its showy displays of wealth, martini-charged arguments and the odd federal charge. On this basis, it understandably hasn’t been a hit with TV critics or feminists (Gloria Steinem lambasted it for portraying women as “rich, pampered, dependent and hateful towards each other”).
Steinem’s critique may have more than a ring of truth, but The Real Housewives franchise is still an endlessly capitivating world of entertainment: just ask its legions of fans, who have tuned in to watch the drama-filled lives of its wealthy female stars since its beginnings in 2006.
For those thinking about adding The Real Housewives to their viewing rotation (you’ll be joining the likes of Rihanna and Meryl Streep), it can be overwhelming to know where to start. In the US, there are currently eight iterations airing or in production, and that’s without considering international instalments like Dubai, Cheshire and Amsterdam (a London adaptation is set to premiere later this year).
Whether you need a hangover go-to, something to tune into now and again or you’re ready to become a meme-sharing, storyline-criticising superfan, we’ve put together a guide to the current US franchises. Think of it as us holding your hand as you embark on your journey into The Real Housewives universe.
Best for: famous faces, glamour, lifestyle porn. Golden age: S1 - S7. Arguably the most famous iteration of the show, the Beverly Hills housewives are also known for being the most glamourous. Its 14 seasons have featured some impressive names: Kathy Hilton (mother of Paris), her child-star sisters Kyle and Kim Richards, Kelsey Grammer’s now ex-wife Camille and even Denise Richards.
