NeNe Leakes has just confirmed her long-awaited return to Bravo in an emotional Instagram video, saying she almost couldn’t “consider” it was finally happening.
After a years-long nasty legal battle, NeNe Leakes is stepping back into the Bravo arena, filming the network’s recent spin-off, “Ultimate Road Trip,” which can have a good time the franchise’s twentieth anniversary.
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NeNe Leakes Says The ‘Tastiest Peach’ Is Back In The ‘Real Housewives’ Fold
In accordance with a previous report from The Blast, outlets suggested that Leakes had been in talks with Bravo producers about making a return to the “Real Housewives” following her dramatic exit in 2020.
Leakes confirmed the speculation in a virtually four-minute Instagram video, sharing that the long, exhausting journey to getting back in Bravo’s good graces has come to an end.
“I’m blissful, overjoyed to say that I can be returning to Bravo,” she said in a video. “I almost cannot consider the words which might be coming out of my mouth,” she added.
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NeNe Leakes Thanks Those Who Fought For Her To Return To Bravo After Years Away
Leakes, who joined the series during season 1 in 2008, went on to thank a spread of individuals, from Housewives to Bravo executives, for consistently fighting for her, including Porsha Williams and Phaedra Parks.
The “Real Housewives of Atlanta” legend also thanked the show’s executive producer, Andy Cohen, and the chairman of Bravo unscripted, Frances Berwick.
“[I want to thank] so many executives behind the scenes who’ve worked to make this occur,” she added. “So many people who have continued to throw my name within the ring. Thanks to everybody over at Bravo. Thanks to all of the people over at Truly Original. Thanks, Shed Media. Thanks to the producers on the bottom who’re calling and texting me, wanting this to be an incredible thing.”
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What Show Will NeNe Leakes Be Part Of?
The Blast reported that Leakes will appear on the network’s upcoming “Ultimate Road Trip” spin-off, which can have a good time the franchise’s twentieth anniversary with iconic Housewives from the past.
While Leakes’ role on the show hasn’t been officially confirmed, other reports state the fact star is not going to be full-time but could have a “notable” presence when the solid stops in Atlanta, Georgia.
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“For 20 years, the Real Housewives has amplified women’s voices, spotlighted their ambition, humor, and strength, inspiring tens of millions with their unapologetic authenticity,” Berwick said concerning the show. “The Real Housewives: Ultimate Road Trip’ is a love letter to the ladies who turned a reality television show right into a cultural phenomenon — and the fans who’ve been there for each laugh, gasp, toast, and table turn.”
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Leakes Has Had A Rocky History With Bravo
Despite being one among Bravo’s breakout stars, things between Leakes and the network soured after her exit from “RHOA” in 2020. The legendary reality star later filed a discrimination lawsuit against the network in 2022, alleging she experienced racism and a hostile work environment.
“NBC, Bravo and True foster a company and workplace culture during which racially-insensitive and inappropriate behavior is tolerated — if not, encouraged,” a part of the suit read. “Because the Black Lives Matter movement swept our nation, Mrs. Leakes — Bravo’s historically most successful Black female talent — must have been embraced by NBC, Bravo, and True.”
“As an alternative, NBC, Bravo, and True forced her out of the ‘house she built,’ denying her an everyday role,” the lawsuit added.
Leakes’ Comeback Has Sent The Bravoverse Into A Frenzy
Thankfully for Bravo fans, Leakes‘ issues with the network are previously, because the “Glee” alum captioned her recent Instagram video, “CONFIRMED!”
She added, “The Tastiest Peach Is Back. Tears yall, Tearssssssss.”
The comment section was flooded with congratulations and well-wishes for the 58-year-old.
Williams wrote, “I am unable to wait!! The door is open! 20 years of Housewives is now complete!! Let’s have a good time.”
Cynthia Bailey added, “The door is back open! Welcome back!”
“Real Housewives” executive producer Carlos King commented, “God is sweet. Comfortable for you, my love.”
Cohen wrote, “Couldn’t have a good time 20 years without you,” to which Leakes replied, “Thanks a lot for all the pieces. Love you butter cup regardless of what.”
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In accordance with Bravo’s “Watch What Happens Live” Instagram account, Cohen will announce the remainder of the solid live to tell the tale January 14 at 10 PM EST.