Coming out can be scary. For many LGBTQ+ persons, maintaining the support of their loved ones is a very valid fear. As is discrimination, prejudice, bigotry, and ever-changing state laws, which come complete with very real life-altering consequences for those in the LGBTQ+ community. Thankfully, representation and well-known allies are on the rise, and on this, our beloved Bravo network is leading the charge.
Over the years, we’ve watched as many Bravolebs have stood up in support, rallying for their marginalized friends. Their voices are now helping to be the change, which thrills this tired Florida-based writer to no end. Now, I’d like to lend these faithful allies my love in return, by letting everyone know that they are the icons, the legends, and the moments. Without any further ado, let’s now celebrate these Bravo LGBTQ+ allies, who we here at Reality Tea all stan.
Meredith Marks
When Meredith Marks isn’t getting tipsy and telling people that they can leave on Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, she’s standing in support of the LGBTQ+ community. As for her commendable efforts, she’s a strong advocate for GLAAD. Within, she has organized fundraisers and special collaborations to help support this organization. Some of these events have even taken place in her own storefront.
This is an important topic for Meredith, as her child Brooks Marks is a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Time after time, we’ve watched Meredith support her child on RHOSLC. On Bravo, she easily engages in open dialogues, centered around breakups and finding the right one.
“My personal belief is, equality means that you don’t ever have to come out. So to me, when we can stop labeling people, that’s when we have equality, at every level,” Meredith said, during an interview with GLAAD. Say no more, Meredith, because you nailed it, and we are thankful for your voice.
Heather Gay
Heather Gay stars alongside Meredith. Just like her costar, she is also a strong ally for those who identify as LGBTQ+. Online, Heather often shares her many “Receipts, proof[s], timelines,” and “screenshots” of her support. Here, her Pride is truly evidenced everywhere, from the designs on her clothing, all the way down to her captured images of the gay pride flags, which she posted on National Voter Registration Day.
During an interview with Page Six, Heather also revealed that she’s “been praying my whole life to become a gay icon. If the gays will take me, I will carry the badge of honor,” she gushed. You may be a Bad Mormon Heather, but you will always be a Great Ally.
Lisa Vanderpump
Lisa Vanderpump is a known LGBTQ+ ally. On Vanderpump Rules, her staff has always been encouraged to go all out on their outfits and their vibes for LA’s Gay Pride Parade. In speaking to Pride Today, LVP shared that for Pride Month, her restaurants will all be decked out in rainbows, and in fact, they will be “coming out of every window.”
When asked about why she loves the gays so much, and why they’re equally obsessed with her in turn, this Real Housewives alum laughed. “I’ve always been so vocal about my support over many years, and sometimes, that’s not always popular. But, I’ve never understood how people came to the opinion that it was their business on who other people should sleep with,” she then answered.
Happy Pride Month, LVP. Thank you for being a friend.
Ariana Madix
Ariana Madix is a solid supporter and member of the LGBTQ+ community. On VPR, she’s openly discussed her bisexuality, giving a much-needed form of representation for the viewers at home. In an interview with Bravo, she shared more about what it means to be an ally for her own community.
“Well number one, it means everything. The LGBTQ people in my life are the most important people to me, and every time I meet LGBTQ youth, they’re at such a disadvantage in our society, and it’s not fair, and we need more allies,” the Pump Rules star stressed.
You’re an ally, Queen Ariana, and we will support you as well, for life.
Sutton Stracke
Sutton Stracke gives me so much life on Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. One of the things that I love most about her is that she’s insanely rich, but even still, her personal attire on RHOBH includes things like sweaters with large images of cats. Basically, I’m a Slutton forever, because on top of her lewks, she is also a well-known ally.
Speaking of her clothing, her West Hollywood boutique has expanded to reach the non-binary market, so not only is she a friend, but she’s also helping the LGBTQ+ community to fulfill a very necessary need. Thank you, Sutton, for all of your life-giving ways.
Heather Dubrow
Heather Dubrow joined the cast of Real Housewives of Orange County in 2012, where we met all four of her children. Three have since come forward, identifying as LGBTQ+. Luckily for them, Heather is in their corner. She’s also there for those in lesser supportive homes, as she uses her platform often to speak out on various LGBTQ+ topics.
In speaking with Family Equality, Heather stressed that for those who don’t understand her children or their decisions made, well, then “f*ck them.” On the bills that are currently being passed, which target our LGBTQ+ youth, the RHOC star also noted that most “people don’t really know what’s going on.” But, in Season 18 of her series, she’s hoping to further shine a light on these matters. Well done, Heather, as your allyship is life.
Bravo gets it
To be clear, many of Bravo’s stars have spoken up in support of the LGBTQ+ community. Hopefully, each one will keep on speaking. Because our youth deserve to feel represented, safe, and loved.
TELL US – WHICH OTHER BRAVOLEBS ARE STRONG ALLIES?