RHOBH reportedly has some cast members watching Leah Remini’s friendship with Andy Cohen closely. One source claims her connection to the Bravo boss has sparked concerns about possible preferential treatment. However, network sources reportedly deny that Remini will receive special treatment as she joins The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.
Leah Remini’s close friendship with Andy Cohen is reportedly raising eyebrows
According to RadarOnline, an insider claimed some cast members fear Remini could become “Bethenny 2.0.” The comparison refers to Bethenny Frankel, whose longtime friendship with Cohen was well known during her time on the Real Housewives franchise.
The source claimed that Housewives cast members notice when someone has a genuine friendship with Cohen. However, Radar also reported that network insiders rejected suggestions that Remini would receive better treatment because of that friendship. Remini officially joined RHOBH Season 16 in August. She later confirmed the news herself after reports of her casting first surfaced.
Cohen later said Bravo had been “dancing around” Remini’s casting for years. He also praised her personality and said she would bring strong energy to the RHOBH cast. That familiarity may explain why some cast members are paying extra attention to their friendships. Even so, no public evidence suggests Cohen has given Remini advantages behind the scenes.
She has already started filming as a full-time Housewife. Her history with Scientology could also shape part of her RHOBH storyline. Remini’s blunt style could also shake up the cast. Her willingness to challenge people directly has already drawn comparisons to the energy Jennifer Tilly brought to RHOBH.
Meanwhile, Cohen has faced scrutiny over his relationships with Housewives before. Earlier this year, reports claimed he had tightened boundaries around private communication amid concerns about behind-the-scenes leaks.
The comparison to Frankel also adds another layer of pressure. Bethenny became one of the franchise’s most recognizable stars, so any suggestion of similar access naturally draws attention.
For now, there is no evidence that Remini has received special treatment. However, if the insider’s account is accurate, her friendship with Cohen could remain a point of discussion among the RHOBH cast as Season 16 unfolds.
