Ranking The Real Housewives of New York City Cast Members: From Least to Most Memorable

Since its inception in 2008, The Real Housewives of New York City (RHONY) has brought forth a slew of unforgettable cast members who have left an indelible mark on reality television. From the early seasons to the recent shake-ups in Season 14, RHONY has become synonymous with drama, humor, and, of course, memorable housewives. In this comprehensive ranking, we’ll explore the cast members from least to most memorable, examining their contributions, quirks, and lasting impact on the RHONY legacy.

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12. Eboni K. Williams

Eboni K. Williams made history as the first Black woman to join RHONY in Season 13. Despite the anticipation surrounding her debut, Eboni faced challenges in resonating with the audience. While she didn’t bring an explosive dynamic to the show, being the first Black woman on RHONY makes her a memorable figure in the franchise’s history.

11. Kristen Taekman

Joining RHONY in Seasons 6 and 7, Kristen Taekman may not have been the most drama-inducing housewife, but her personal life, particularly her relationship with husband Josh Taekman, provided an interesting storyline. Her tagline, “I may not be the sharpest tool in the shed, but I’m pretty,” remains one of the funniest in RHONY history.

10. Aviva Drescher

Aviva Drescher, part of the reboot in Season 5, initially seemed like a typical New Yorker but quickly revealed her kooky side. Her infamous moment of throwing her prosthetic leg during Season 6 is etched in RHONY lore, ensuring her lasting presence in the franchise.

9. Leah McSweeney

Introduced in Season 12 as a friend of Tinsley Mortimer, Leah McSweeney quickly won over fans with her free spirit. Her revelation about resuming drinking after nine years of sobriety added a layer of authenticity to her character. Despite not returning for Season 14, Leah left an impact during her tenure.

8. Heather Thomson

Heather Thomson, spanning Seasons 5 to 7 and making guest appearances thereafter, brought a refreshing dynamic to RHONY. Known for her “holla” catchphrase and witty confessional remarks, Heather’s friendship with Carole Radziwill provided a unique and enjoyable element to the show.

7. Carole Radziwill

Carole Radziwill, present in Seasons 5 to 10, stood out as the “normal” one among the RHONY cast. Her cool demeanor, strong friendships, and the infamous feud with Bethenny Frankel during Season 10 made her a memorable figure, demonstrating that staying out of drama was no guarantee of a drama-free life.

6. Kelly Killoren Bensimon

Joining RHONY in Seasons 2 to 4, Kelly Killoren Bensimon brought a sense of unpredictability. Her meltdown on “Scary Island” in the Virgin Islands became a pivotal moment, coining the term that fans still use to reference that episode.

5. Ramona Singer

The longest-running cast member from Season 1 to 13, Ramona Singer’s quirky personality and unfiltered remarks have made her a standout figure. Constantly forgetting names and exhibiting a snobbish demeanor, Ramona is unapologetically herself, earning both love and disdain from fans.

4. Sonja Morgan

Joining in Season 3, Sonja Morgan quickly became a fan favorite with her quirky one-liners and questionable comments. Her escapades, including partying with “John John Kennedy and Madonna,” have solidified her status as a top-tier RHONY cast member.

3. Luann de Lesseps

Luann de Lesseps, an OG cast member, has been part of RHONY for 13 seasons. Known for her singing career, marriage to Tom D’Agostino, and classic catchphrases, such as “be cool, don’t be all like uncool,” Luann’s contributions have been integral to the show’s success.

2. Bethenny Frankel

Bethenny Frankel, a powerhouse from Seasons 1 to 3 and 7 to 11, is a RHONY icon. Her tumultuous love life, sharp wit, and fearless confrontations with fellow cast members have left an indelible mark. Bethenny’s impact extends beyond RHONY, making her one of reality television’s most beloved figures.

1. Dorinda Medley

Taking the top spot as one of the most iconic RHONY ladies, Dorinda Medley entered the scene in Season 7 and continued to captivate until Season 12. Known for her hilarious quotes and memorable drunk outbursts, Dorinda’s ability to “make it nice” resonated with fans. Despite imperfections, she remains an unforgettable force in the RHONY universe.

Conclusion

The Real Housewives of New York City has seen its fair share of cast members, each contributing a unique flavor to the iconic franchise. From groundbreaking moments to unforgettable catchphrases, these housewives have left an enduring legacy in the world of reality television. As RHONY continues to evolve with new faces in Season 14, the impact of these memorable cast members remains imprinted on the hearts of fans, ensuring their place in the rich history of the Real Housewives universe.