Is Miami the Most Underrated 'Real Housewives' Franchise? Execs Weigh In

The Real Housewives of Miami: A Dynamic and Underrated Franchise

The Real Housewives of Miami (RHOM) has carved out a unique space in the Bravo universe, despite being considered an underrated gem among the franchise's other series. Since its debut in 2011, the show faced a hiatus until it was successfully rebooted in 2021. This revival led to the release of a long-overdue fourth season, which was later moved to Peacock before returning to Bravo in late 2023 for its seventh season.

Miami offers a blend of drama, luxury, and cultural diversity that sets it apart from its sister shows. However, despite its entertainment value, RHOM often finds itself overshadowed by other franchises. Fans have expressed this sentiment, and executive producer Matt Anderson acknowledges it, noting that the fanbase feels a sense of responsibility in keeping the show alive.

Season Seven: Drama, New Cast Members, and Emotional Moments

Season seven of RHOM continues to deliver high levels of drama. Alexia Nepola is dealing with her third divorce, while Lisa Hochstein mourns the loss of her father. Julia Lemigova recently adopted twins with her wife, Martina Navratilova, and Lara Pippin is navigating a messy breakup with Michael Jordan’s son. Stephanie Shojaee, a first-time housewife, brings a fresh perspective to the cast, while Guerdy Abraira is learning to live life after battling and beating cancer.

The show also features “friends of” the housewives, such as Kiki Barth, Adriana de Moura, and Marysol Patton, who play integral roles in the narrative. Their presence adds another layer of complexity and connection to the show.

Ratings for season seven have increased by 14 percent compared to season six, but the show still maintains an “underrated” reputation. Anderson believes that the fan engagement is crucial to the show’s success, as fans are invested in making sure the show is given the attention it deserves.

The Reboot and Evolution of the Show

When RHOM was rebooted four years ago, it was clear that there was a strong fanbase eager for its return. According to Kathleen French, senior vice president of NBCUniversal Entertainment’s unscripted current production, the audience’s enthusiasm was evident at events like BravoCon, where fans consistently asked when the show would return.

The decision to reboot the show involved bringing back some original cast members while introducing new ones. This strategy allowed the show to maintain its core identity while evolving with the times. For instance, Dr. Nicole Martin and Guerdy Abraira were added for their unique backgrounds and stories, representing a more modern and diverse version of the Housewives franchise.

The Role of “Friends of” the Housewives

One of the distinguishing features of RHOM is the inclusion of “friends of” the housewives. These individuals, such as Marysol Patton and Adriana de Moura, are deeply integrated into the show’s narrative. Unlike other franchises that frequently change their “friends,” RHOM maintains a consistent group, which adds to the show’s authenticity and appeal.

French explains that the decision to feature these individuals depends on the comfort level of the cast members. Some may not want their personal lives or partners featured on the show, but this does not diminish their importance to the overall dynamic.

Why Is RHOM Considered Underrated?

Despite its popularity and entertainment value, RHOM is still seen as an underdog within the Real Housewives franchise. Anderson attributes this to the strong fan engagement and the desire to ensure the show receives the recognition it deserves. He believes that being an underdog allows the show to exceed expectations, as seen in the positive reception of season seven.

French also notes that the show is building momentum, with each season contributing to its growth. While there have been longer gaps between seasons, the recent move to a regular schedule has helped increase viewership and fan loyalty.

Handling Conflict and Physical Altercations

Physical altercations on reality TV can be challenging to manage. When Julia Lemigova threw a drink on Guerdy Abraira during a recent episode, production quickly intervened. French emphasized the importance of maintaining respect and safety on set, and both women expressed regret over the incident. Production ensured that the situation was addressed, and both cast members were given the opportunity to express their feelings and move forward.

Anderson highlighted the need to prioritize the well-being of the cast, ensuring that they feel safe and supported throughout the filming process.

New Cast Member and Future Plans

Stephanie Shojaee, the new addition to the cast, brought a fresh energy to the show. Her background in real estate and her connection to the previous cast made her a perfect fit. French noted that her integration into the group was smooth, and she quickly became a valuable part of the dynamic.

Looking ahead, both Anderson and French hope for continued success for RHOM. Anderson expressed a desire to bring a Latin pop star onto the show, citing Shakira as a potential candidate. He believes that incorporating a global Latin pop star would add a unique dimension to the franchise, reflecting the cultural richness of Miami.

Final Thoughts and Upcoming Episodes

New episodes of The Real Housewives of Miami air weekly on Bravo, with new episodes available to stream on Peacock. As the show continues to evolve, it remains a compelling and entertaining addition to the Real Housewives franchise. With its vibrant cast, rich cultural backdrop, and ongoing drama, RHOM is proving that it deserves the attention and recognition it has long sought.