Jenna Lyons is leaving RHONY after being with the cast for two seasons now. The announcement came in an Instagram post on November 21, 2025. The designer and TV personality confirmed that she will not be back for another installment. She said she had weighed in the choice carefully and ultimately decided not to return to The Real Housewives of New York City.
Jenna Lyons reveals she is leaving Real Housewives of New York City
Jenna Lyons opened up about leaving RHONY on her Instagram. She confirmed the news and claimed that the decision was hers. The reality TV star wrote, “The rumors are true… I was grateful to be asked to join season 16 of RHONY ‘as a friend of’ — knowing my personal life was not really available to be filmed, we agreed that made sense. And after thinking it through, I have made the difficult decision [to] not return to the show.”
She also noted one practical reason behind her choice. “I would be the oldest and only openly gay woman on the show and feel like this is an opportunity for a new dynamic to emerge.” Lyons thanked castmates and the Bravo team by name, adding appreciation for the support she received. She also thanked the fans who have loved her along the way.
It is no news that Lyons might be leaving RHONY in Season 16 because she wants to keep her life private. Previously, too, she had decided not to include her partner, Cass Bird, on TV with her. She explained on the show that she keeps certain parts of her life private because of earlier exposure.
This choice had created some friction with castmates on screen. Her costar Sai De Silva said at one point she wanted more openness from Lyons. “I want to know what’s going on with her relationship… I’m hoping she’ll let her guard down a little bit” (via PEOPLE).
As for fans, they are upset at her exit but respect her decision to do so. A fan wrote under her post in comments, “Honestly you deserve your own show ?” while another said, “Always a class act – you’re truly iconic. Will miss you on this show JFL!!”
Originally reported by Preksha Sharma on ComingSoon.
