One of the most beautiful things about reality TV is empathizing with those who struggle on screen. Parasocial relationships can be a dangerous thing, but being a fan of, say, a Real Housewife, can be rewarding when they grow and achieve.
Critics, however, have questioned how real the on-screen struggles truly are. If Kyle Richards, for example, has faked her marital troubles with Mauricio Umansky, that would be the ultimate betrayal to Real Housewives of Beverly Hills fans.
On the other hand, if their separation issues are real, is the best place to process their emotions behind a bunch of cameras? Now, just before Season 13 premieres, Kyle has taken to social media to address the challenges she’s faced while filming the season.
Kyle admits how “challenging” Season 13 was
Ahead of Season 13, Kyle made an IG post writing, “Tonight! Season 13 begins.” She reflected, “13 years… Here we go again. Each season always brings surprise twists and turns. This season more than ever. I am normally one to isolate when I am struggling, so navigating through this time in my life while cameras were rolling was challenging to say the least.”
She continued, “I am grateful that [there] are plenty of fun times too. Ultimately that has been what has kept me coming back year after year. That and my relationships with the people that make RHOBH. Cast and crew. So, now it’s time to sit back and watch (and for me to relive these moments. Good and bad.)”
Kyle concluded the post by writing, “As always, thank you for watching. And thank you for coming along on this wild ride we call life.” Kyle has struggled, and one has to wonder if that struggle should’ve been reserved for off-camera. Many commenters questioned if Kyle and her marital issues had been exploited, which begs the question of whether tuning in is supportive.
Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Season 13 airs tonight Wednesday, October 25 at 8/7c on Bravo.
TELL US – WILL YOU BE TUNING IN FOR RHOBH SEASON 13? DO YOU THINK KYLE’S HARDSHIPS WERE EXPLOITED?
