Andy Cohen Addresses 'RHONY' Hybrid Season Rumors at BravoCon 2025

During BravoCon 2025, held from October 13-15, Andy Cohen addressed rumors regarding a hybrid season of "Real Housewives of New York" (RHONY). "The original New York had 13 incredible seasons," Cohen stated, reinforcing the show's historical significance in shaping reality television.

The anticipated hybrid season will feature both legacy cast members and newcomers, a format first experimented with in "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" in its 11th season in 2021. This approach aims to refresh the franchise while keeping longtime fans engaged.

Previously, Cohen discussed potential cast changes and the challenges they pose. In 2020, the RHONY cast underwent significant shifts when several prominent members, including Dorinda Medley and Tinsley Mortimer, left the show. Their departures resulted in a notable viewer decline, prompting a strategy rethink.

According to industry sources, Bravo sees this hybrid format as a means to bridge generational gaps among viewers, drawing inspiration from other successful shows. For instance, "The Real World: Atlanta" in 2023 successfully integrated diverse cast identities, demonstrating the audience's growing interest in varied perspectives.

Cohen's comments at BravoCon also highlighted his role as executive producer for several reality shows. Among these, he recently launched "What's Your Emergency?" in early 2025, focusing on real-life heroism, which received positive reviews from critics.

Cohen confirmed that filming for the RHONY hybrid season is set to begin in early December 2025, with an expected release in late 2026. This timeline aligns closely with the network's promotional strategy, which often ramps up advertising two to three months before premiering new seasons.

The buzz around the hybrid format mirrors past excitement during the RHOBH reunion specials, where fan engagement surged alongside cast announcements. Such dynamics underscore the importance of audience involvement in shaping the show's trajectory.

The current RHONY situation highlights a broader industry trend wherein reality television seeks to reinvent itself. Similar adaptations have been seen with franchises like "Survivor," which introduced new casting dynamics across its seasons.

In conclusion, Cohen's proactive approach to the RHONY hybrid season could set a precedent for future reality programs. As Cohen noted, the legacy of RHONY is immense, and maintaining its relevance will be crucial as Bravo continues to navigate evolving viewer preferences.