It was just a few days ago that Gerry Turner was announced as ABC’s first-ever Golden Bachelor for the eponymous new reality show. But despite the announcement’s recency, the internet is already ablaze over the 71-year-old hunk.
Reactions to the show’s announcement itself felt lukewarm at best. It seemed like an odd idea. Still, ABC was going to roll with it regardless. And once they showed Gerry to the world, everyone seemed a bit more interested.
Gerry might just be the perfect face to launch this new Bachelor franchise. As part of that responsibility, he’s already hitting the promotional trail, doing interviews and exclusives, and telling us more about himself and his family.
How do Gerry’s kids feel about The Golden Bachelor?
Gerry went on the Bachelor Happy Hour podcast to discuss his family dynamics amidst the Bachelor experience. He explained, “The experience of having them in Los Angeles with me a couple of weeks ago, when I was doing the promotions and so forth … I mean, we’d laugh and we cry and it was just an amazing, amazing experience.”
He said his granddaughters, aged 16 and 21, loved to find buzz online and show it to him. Gerry’s daughters also shared responses from friends about the news. He explained, “[I’m] pleasantly surprised that there’s been almost no jealousy about it. No one’s saying I wish it was me and mentally wishing I wasn’t in that spot. Everybody is so positive and supportive.”
When Gerry was initially announced as the first Golden Bachelor, it was clear that he had his family’s support. Gerry’s wife, Toni, passed away in 2017. But after the grieving process, Gerry decided he wanted to get out there again, and he had his family’s support in doing so.
The Golden Bachelor will premiere this fall on ABC.
TELL US – DO YOU HOPE TO SEE GERRY’S FAMILY ON THE SHOW? WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON GERRY SO FAR?
Vanderpump Rules star Lala Kent certainly isn’t shy. She shares a daughter, Ocean Kent, with former fiancé Randall Emmett. Now she is a single mom and businessperson. She should give Tom Sandoval a hug because she earned enough on Scandoval merch to make a down payment on a house. Kudos!
Lala joined Stassi for her podcast, Straight Up With Stassi. They dished about what they hope their children will learn from VPR. How to skinny dip? Steal sunglasses? Lie and cheat? The world is your oyster, kiddos!
Vanderpump Rules you shouldn’t follow
“There are many people who say, ‘You should be worried about her watching Vanderpump Rules.’ I’m not worried at all,” Lala explained. “I want her to see those things. I want her to go like, ‘Wow. My mom has had experiences in life. She’s never gonna judge me. She’s been a hot mess herself. I’m in a safe space.’”
Stassi would also like her daughter to watch the show that made her mom famous. “Hopefully, they learn from our mistakes. I hope Hartford watches Vanderpump Rules and shudders and cringes and is like, ‘Mom, you were so f*cking mean. Like, that’s not cool,’” Stassi said. “I really hope that our kids watch and learn.”
At least Lala and Stassi understand that they cannot shield their children from their pasts. “There will be a day when she probably comes across things that I’ve done. I’m thinking that our kids, when they see those things, they’re gonna be, like, very embarrassed and they’re gonna [do] the complete opposite,” Lala stated. The ladies also touched on mom-shaming.
Recently, Lala posted a swimsuit photo on her Instagram Story, showing off her figure. The Fourth of July snap, which focused on Lala’s booty, enraged some followers.
Lala clapped back at her critics in another Instagram Story. “I’m so over the mom shaming from some of you women. I’m a parent, work full time, rarely have one moment for just me, and for just one second on the 4th of July I felt hot and wanted a picture,” she wrote. “Anything but praise is unwelcome. If you have anything negative to say, go f*ck yourself. Leave me alone.”
Well, here’s hoping that we won’t be watching Vanderpump Rules: The Next Generation in about 20 years.
TELL US – WILL HAVING THEIR CHILDREN WATCH PUMP RULES BACKFIRE ON LALA AND STASSI? WILL IT DISCOURAGE WILD BEHAVIOR?
But over the season, impressions of Jenn have mostly improved, albeit at the expense of her friendship with Tamra. In the most recent episode, we finally saw the long-anticipated napkin throw as tensions between the friends heated up drastically.
Many were unimpressed with Tamra but respected Jennifer for sticking to her guns. And with all the attention that Jenn has garnered, she got the chance to go on Watch What Happens Live to discuss her newfound fame with Andy Cohen.
How Jenn’s life changed from RHOC
Andy asked her, “What has been the most surreal part of being … a Real Housewife of Orange County?” Jennifer responded, “I couldn’t find Dominic in the Bahamas for a split second. And so I had this … moment of panic. And then somebody came up to me and said, ‘Are you Jenn from blah blah blah?’”
She continued, responding to the individual, “‘Yeah, but I’m so sorry, I have to go find my son.’ They’re like, ‘Dominic? … He’s over there.’ I’m like, ‘Wait a minute, what?’ There was like this moment of ‘Wait a minute’ … Everything clicked in that moment.” Turns out there are some perks to being recognized in public.
If Jenn stays on TV, she’ll no doubt experience more of that down the line. In some ways, it’s quite unfortunate how privacy often isn’t afforded to reality TV stars. Nevertheless, Jenn has certainly made a splash on RHOC, and most of the commenters seem to think so. One wrote, “amazing first season for jennifer! i really like her.”
Real Housewives of Orange County continues Wednesdays at 8/7c on Bravo.
TELL US – WHAT DO YOU THINK OF JENN’S FIRST SEASON SO FAR? DO YOU WANT TO SEE MORE OF HER?
Gina Kirschenheiter is having a very emotional time on the Real Housewives of Orange County. Despite seemingly repairing her relationship with her ex-husband, her raw emotions towards being cheated on in her marriage are very apparent.
And those emotions are pitting Gina against a few of her castmates. At least, that’s what she is presenting to viewers. Let’s face it, she needs that orange.
Gina’s issues with Heather Dubrow, and especially Jennifer Pedranti are coming forward as major storylines. The details of Jenn’s affair bring up emotions of days past. To the point that Gina felt the need to remove herself from Jennifer’s presence at times.
Jennifer said “it’s not me”
RHOC viewers are certainly aware of Gina’s feelings, but what does Jennifer think about it all? In the most recent episode, Gina worked through some of her feelings and came to Jennifer with respect and authenticity.
Despite that bonding moment, Jennifer still harbors some negative feelings about the whole thing. During a recent appearance on Watch What Happens Live, Andy Cohen asked her, “reaction to Gina being so triggered by” her “relationship with Ryan?”
“At first, I felt super apologetic. Like, I felt so bad for triggering her. Then I kind of got pissed about it. I’m not the reason. You need to actually deal with whatever it is that’s triggering you. It’s not me,” Jennifer said.
Heather said as much to Gina while on the trip to Montana. The mother of four also suggested Gina’s boyfriend Travis Mullen may not be able to “put up with it” forever.
At this point in the season, Jennifer and Gina are on good terms. Has this issue been put to rest? Or will the ladies fight again on the issue? Certainly, the issue has not been put to rest between Jennifer and Tamra Judge. But that’s a different can of worms entirely.
Catch the next episode of Real Housewives of Orange County, Wednesdays at 8/7c on Bravo.
TELL US – WHAT DO YOU THINK OF GINA’S EMOTIONS REGARDING JENNIFER’S AFFAIR? WHAT DO YOU THINK OF JENNIFER’S COMMENTS ON WWHL? WILL JENNIFER AND GINA HAVE CONFLICT ON THE ISSUE AGAIN?
Project Runway is always a good time, but watching these All Stars compete takes things to another level. The challenges are getting harder to call, both for a winner and a loser. Thankfully, the judging is left up to the professionals; we’re just here for the ride! Here’s everything that happened in Project Runway Season 20, Episode 7, as the remaining designers were asked to come up with a high fashion creation, showcasing couture undergarments in a “new, cool way.”
Bring on the boys!
(Photo by: Zach Dilgard/Bravo)
One of the running themes throughout this episode of Project Runway, was the thirst for male models. Christian couldn’t have been more excited to introduce men to the workroom, and he wasn’t the only one. Laurence noted that it was typically easier to work with a male model, because they don’t have the same curves as women. For Anna, this was the first time she would be working with a male model in her entire career.
As the All Stars took just 30 minutes to sketch a design, Prajjé noted that he prefers not wearing undergarments altogether. Anna also said that she would be taking inspiration from her breast infection that she picked up when breastfeeding. Her outfit would incorporate “bleeding nipple cones.” Okay, then!
After sketching, each contestant was given $450 to shop for fabrics at MOOD. Laurence earned an extra $100, having won the challenge the week prior. Korto is going for something “classy, but sexy,” but it was Bishme’s first choice of glittering green fabric that had Christian worried. He called it a “Christmas dress,” and I had instant flashbacks to THAT Real Housewives of New Jersey reunion. If you know, you know.
Kara Saun’s inspiration for her design came from the Tulsa race massacre in 1921. The attackers burned over 35 square blocks of the neighborhood, simply because it was one of the wealthiest, most successful Black communities in the United States. Paying tribute would be a tall order, but Kara Saun is one of the best designers we’ve ever seen. She’ll undoubtedly do it justice.
Back in the workroom
(Photo by: Zach Dilgard/Bravo)
Did I mention that this was a one-day challenge? The designers are spiraling, but hopeful. Fabio is downtrodden after being told he has been playing it too safe. Seeing his choice in fabric, it’s clear that’s not the same path he’ll be going down in this episode. When Christian arrives, he says he likes the idea, but thinks the shape may not be exciting enough. “My mom has that blouse, she wore it last week, she’s 75,” he quips.
Over with Brittany, Christian likes the “sexy tennis” approach. Rami has chosen some “beautiful” fabric, and Christian loves his idea, calling it “really romantic.” He tells his friend that he needs “a moment,” and Rami tells production, “I refuse to accept ‘dated’ as a description of my work.” You tell ’em, Rami! It’s hard not to root for him.
Christian tells Anna not to go with her bleeding nipple inspiration, describing them as “dangly, weird things.” He’s also worried that Bishme has nothing for fitting, but Bishme tells him he can “fit in my thoughts.” Over at Kara Saun’s station, he warns her, “Don’t go too costume-y.” As for Prajjé? “Good luck, ’cause you have so much to make!”
Model fitting gives Korto second thoughts
As the models arrive, it’s all eyes on the men’s abs. Everybody needs some water; this is a thirsty group. Christian especially. When he’s not distracted, he tells Korto that she has designed a “recipe for torture from Brandon [Maxwell].” Over with Fabio, he tries to assert some more authority over the design, pushing him to change aspects of it. He’s unsuccessful, and remarks, “What can you do?”
At the end of the day, Fabio is “annoyed,” and “feels defeated.” He says it’s a “mindf*ck” to believe in something, but to have that same something torn apart by someone else. He’s not the only one melting down, as half of the All Stars begin to spiral. With the day coming to a close, the designers say goodnight in the Night Lounge. Fabio is questioning himself, and seems to be contemplating walking from the competition.
Fabio decides to stick around
After some sleep, Fabio finds strength in his family. He’s going to see this journey out to the end, whenever that may be.
Everybody returns to the workroom, with four hours to go before the runway. In that time, models have to be fitted, designs have to be completed, and both hair and makeup needs to be done. It’s a tall order, but before the models take to the runway, it’s clear that these designs are going to be some of the most memorable in Project Runway Season 20 so far.
Two guest judges arrive for the runway
(Photo by: Zach Dilgard/Bravo)
Nina Garcia is nowhere to be found, so designer Sergio Hudson is sitting in her place. He is joined by signature judges Brandon and Elaine, as well as guest judge, supermodel Paulina Porizkova.
Prajjé’s look is first out. I love the kilt, but I’m not so hot on the frayed corset. The jacket’s awesome, so it’s a shame not to see it worn. Korto’s next, and the skirt is great, but the bra and its cups are lopsided. Bishme’s design knocks it out of the park; a regular occurrence. They just always deliver high fashion, and his model kills it. Sex sells!
Fabio’s outfit is certainly more daring. Sadly, it’s giving starfish. Kara Saun does the ancestors proud, and the judges can’t believe she’s done so much in just 12 hours. Then there’s Anna’s design, without the droopy nipple cones, which is serving avant-garde.
Brittany’s color palette is everything. It reminds me of an old American diner. I could see someone like Ariana Madix of Vanderpump Rules wearing this design. Rami’s design is unlike anyone else’s, and glides across the runway. Definitely his finest look of the season. Finally, Laurence’s male model does a lot of heavy lifting. He looks incredible, but where is the outerwear? It’s not obvious, and that’s a killer in this challenge.
The judges have their say
(Photo by: Zach Dilgard/Bravo)
“Nice to see some innovation on the runway,” Brandon says to open the judging. Brittany, Bishme, and Anna are all immediately told they’re safe. Elaine gives Bishme the note, “Your look might have ended up in the top if it weren’t for those shoulders.” I think that’s a little unfair. If you’ve got a signature, you want to include it wherever you can.
Rami is in the top for the first time this season. Brandon is “highly impressed by the craftsmanship of the skirt,” and Paulina says the design gives a “whisper of lingerie.” It’s stunning and sexy, without being crude. Prajjé joins him in the best looks of the week. It made a “statement,” by having “all the elements of gender,” says Paulina. Sergio adds, “This is what happens when styling goes right.” Kara Saun rounds out the top, with Elaine noting that this design was “in a league of its own.”
On the opposite end of the spectrum, sits Fabio. Paulina quips that his design reminds her of a “shower curtain caught in a fishing net.” Sergio would have cut out the stomach piece entirely. Korto is also in the bottom, and Paulina makes another hilarious, yet cutting remark. She says it was like a “really old table napkin stuck across her chest.” Finally, there’s Laurence. “The undergarment part was sort of like an afterthought,” Brandon says.
Who is next to go home on Project Runway Season 20?
(Photo by: Zach Dilgard/Bravo)
In the end, we said goodbye to Fabio. This came after Kara Saun was announced as the winner. Rami, Prajjé, Korto, and Laurence, all survive to slay another week.
“It’s about culture, it’s about ancestors, it’s everything,” Kara Saun says.
Fabio says he “never compromised, and I hope that’s inspiring.” He will definitely be missed.
Next week: There’s a road trip to Christian’s new store! Plus, Julia Fox is joining the judging panel…
Project Runway Season 20 continues Thursdays at 9/8c on Bravo.
So Luann may not be missing the rigors of filming an entire season of Real Housewives. She’s still getting to enjoy the process. But Luann was asked to share her feelings about Bravo rebooting the series that made her famous.
Luann hopes for more Crappie Lake seasons
Luann appeared on the PodcastOne Turtle Time podcast, with hosts Ramona and Avery Singer, during which the latter asked her “thoughts on the new cast?”
“They have gotten their younger, diverse cast,” Luann stated before acknowledging the scheduling lineup. RHONY and Welcome to Crappie Lake air back to back.
“I wish them luck. We had a great run. I have no hard feelings and I feel like, at this point, I’m really enjoying doing Crappie Lake. Hopefully, there’ll be more seasons to go of Crappie Lake and other towns that we go into. So, you know, I wish them the best and let’s see how it goes.”
As it stands, the RHONY premiere did not pull in significant numbers, with a mere 672,000 tuning in. There is an anticipation that viewership may increase if enough hype about the series spreads.
The alums were cancelled after a disastrous thirteenth season. Viewers complained about the seemingly disjointed and dysfunctional cast.
Catch RHONY and Luann and Sonja: Welcome to Crappie Lake, Sundays on Bravo.
TELL US – ARE YOU SURPRISED BY LUANN’S ANSWER? DO YOU THINK HER FORMER CAST MATES FEEL THE SAME WAY? ARE YOU WATCHING THE RHONY REBOOT?
Yes, that’s right, the earrings debacle might finally be (almost) over. Of course, it wouldn’t have been such a situation in the first place if Erika Jayne hadn’t made such a fuss. But let’s take it back to the beginning.
In 2020, the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star saw her husband, Tom Girardi, arrested and sued multiple times over for allegedly embezzling money from his clients. Tom has been facing the music ever since. Some suspected Erika was even complicit in his schemes.
But regardless of whether or not that’s true, once Tom was found out, a bankruptcy trustee oversaw Tom’s law firm, looking to reclaim millions of dollars that Tom spent and transferred illegally. Among the alleged illegal purchases were the earrings. Erika was forced to auction them off but appealed that decision. Now it seems the tides are turning in her favor.
Erika won her earrings back (kind of)
Erika Girardi Wins Appeal over auctioned earrings.
The Court agreed with Erika that the earrings were not the bankruptcy estate's property and, therefore, shouldn't have been turned over to the bankruptcy trustee. The matter is remanded to the BK court to sort out. pic.twitter.com/E5YpDuHTUp
Emily D. Baker, a self-proclaimed entertainment legal analyst, tweeted out some details about Erika’s appeal. Emily showed a photo of the diamond earrings alongside screenshots of the California district court’s revision order. In the snippets of the revision screenshots, it says, “The Trustee has done no legwork here to show the funds were commingled.”
In other words, the bankruptcy estate can’t prove whether stolen money purchased the earrings. Or, as Emily wrote, “The Court agreed with Erika that the earrings were not the bankruptcy estate’s property and, therefore, shouldn’t have been turned over to the bankruptcy trustee. The matter is remanded to the BK court to sort out.”
One Twitter user replied by mentioning Ronald Richards, a Housewives superfan whose wife purchased Erika’s earrings at auction. “It won’t happen but I’d like to see Ron R. have to return them. Surely it would be easier for the bankruptcy court to return 250k to him than 759k to Erika.”
Real Housewives of Beverly Hills is expected to return to Bravo in November 2023.
TELL US – DO YOU THINK ERIKA DESERVES THE EARRINGS? ARE YOU PAST THIS WHOLE SITUATION?
? (@TheEmilyDBaker) 
