NeNe Leakes makes surprise comeback on Real Housewives franchise after six years
NeNe Leakes reappears on a Real Housewives special, joining former co-star Porsha Williams for a cross-country road trip, six years after her contentious departure.
In the premiere of the Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th Special, Porsha Williams greets NeNe Leakes at her home to prepare for a multi-city trip that will stop in places like Orange County, Beverly Hills, Miami, New York City and Atlanta. Leakes, who abruptly ended her tenure on the Atlanta installment during the virtual Season 12 reunion in 2020, says she is pleased to be back despite the unexpected invitation.
The reunion segment underscores the significance of her return, noting that she left Bravo after a prolonged, emotionally charged negotiation and later filed a lawsuit accusing the network and Andy Cohen of fostering a racially insensitive workplace. Although Leakes dismissed the case months later and has since mended ties with Cohen, the appearance marks a notable moment for the franchise’s 20-year celebration.
Why it matters
Leakes' return signals a potential thaw in long-standing disputes and adds star power to the franchise’s anniversary.
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