Taylor Armstrong’s Historic Franchise Leap: A New Beginning on The Real Housewives of Orange County
In a groundbreaking move that sent ripples through the Bravo universe, Taylor Armstrong, a familiar face from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (RHOBH), has officially made history as the very first ‘Real Housewife’ to switch franchises. Now, at 51, she’s in the midst of filming season 17 of The Real Housewives of Orange County (RHOC), embracing a fresh start in a new city with a different group of ladies. HollywoodLife had the exclusive opportunity to sit down with Taylor at BravoCon 2022 in NYC, where she candidly discussed the unique ups and downs of this unprecedented transition and what fans can expect from her return to reality television.
A Pioneering Move: The First Housewife Franchise Switch
Taylor Armstrong’s decision to join the cast of The Real Housewives of Orange County isn’t just a simple casting change; it marks a significant moment in the history of the widely popular Real Housewives franchise. For over a decade, fans have become accustomed to Housewives being intrinsically linked to their originating cities. Taylor’s leap from Beverly Hills, where she was an “OG” (original gangsta) cast member, to Orange County, the birthplace of the entire franchise, sets a new precedent. This historic move opens up exciting possibilities for the future of Bravo’s reality programming, suggesting that beloved figures might cross geographical boundaries more frequently, bringing their unique histories and personalities to new groups and dynamics. It allows for a fresh perspective, not just for the Housewife herself, but also for the long-standing cast members of the new franchise, injecting new energy and storylines.
Speaking exclusively with HollywoodLife on October 15th, Taylor articulated her excitement for this new chapter. “It was just exciting that Bravo has given me the opportunity to show the new side of my life versus all that I was going through when I was on Beverly Hills was so traumatic,” Taylor revealed. Her words hint at the profound personal transformation she has undergone since her earlier days on screen. This new venture isn’t just about entertainment; for Taylor, it’s a chance to redefine her public persona and share a more authentic, joyful version of herself with the world. “And now I just get to be exactly who I am,” she added, emphasizing a sense of liberation. “And just enjoy the experience and not be afraid to say something wrong or do something wrong. And so you’re gonna enjoy it.” This statement underscores a significant shift in her approach to reality television, moving from a period of immense personal struggle to one of genuine self-acceptance and enjoyment.
Escaping the Shadows: Taylor’s New Chapter in Orange County
Taylor Armstrong’s initial tenure on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills was, by her own admission, profoundly “traumatic.” Viewers witnessed her navigate unimaginable personal struggles, primarily the highly publicized abuse she endured at the hands of her then-husband, Russell Armstrong, with whom she shared her daughter, Kennedy. The devastating climax of this period came after season 2 wrapped filming, when Russell tragically died by suicide. This period cast a dark shadow over Taylor’s life and her time on the show, making her storyline one of the most poignant and heartbreaking in franchise history. Her resilience in the face of such adversity garnered significant sympathy and admiration from fans, who watched her bravely attempt to rebuild her life.
After a tumultuous three seasons, Taylor exited RHOBH, seeking privacy and a chance to heal away from the glare of reality television. In 2014, she found love and stability with her attorney, John Bluher, and the couple subsequently relocated to Orange County, California. This geographical move was more than just a change of address; it symbolized a complete restart, allowing Taylor to shed the heavy weight of her past and embrace a future filled with peace and happiness. Her return to the Real Housewives universe, specifically in her new home, signifies not a retreat to old patterns but a triumphant step forward, demonstrating her strength and newfound contentment. It’s a testament to her journey that she now feels secure enough to re-enter the demanding world of reality TV, not as a victim of circumstances, but as a confident woman eager to share her evolved self.
Navigating Established Waters: Joining the RHOC Cast
One of the most intriguing aspects of Taylor’s transition to RHOC is the stark contrast between her original experience on RHOBH and her current one. As an “OG” cast member for Beverly Hills, Taylor was instrumental in shaping the show’s initial dynamics alongside iconic figures like Lisa Vanderpump, Kyle Richards, Camille Grammer, Adrienne Maloof, and Kim Richards. She was there from the ground up, helping to define the very essence of that franchise. Now, she enters RHOC, a show that not only predates RHOBH but also boasts a long, intricate history and deeply entrenched relationships among its cast members.
This dynamic presents a unique challenge and opportunity for Taylor. In her chat with HollywoodLife, she highlighted this difference: “You know what the interesting thing about the OC is? Because I was an OG for Beverly Hills, going onto a cast that has history has been interesting. I’m kind of catching up on the news.” Her observation perfectly captures the intricate social tapestry she’s now weaving herself into. The Orange County Housewives have years, even decades, of shared experiences, friendships, rivalries, and unresolved conflicts that continue to play out on screen. For Taylor, it’s like stepping into the middle of a long-running play, requiring her to quickly absorb the existing narratives and character arcs. She elaborated, “Because they have years of stuff that they’re still kind of hashing out, and so I’m just trying to figure out like, who’s in the right, who’s in the wrong, and everybody has their own side. So I think that’s been the interesting thing about switching. So you’re gonna see some history with these ladies coming out this season.” This promises a season rich with established drama, viewed through the fresh lens of an outsider learning the ropes. Viewers will get to see Taylor’s perspective as she tries to decipher the complex web of allegiances and disagreements, adding an exciting new layer to the familiar RHOC landscape. Her role as an impartial observer, initially, could provide valuable insights into ongoing feuds, potentially even helping to mediate or, conversely, stirring the pot with her distinct Beverly Hills energy.
Reunion and New Connections: The RHOC Ensemble
Taylor Armstrong’s journey back to the ‘Real Housewives’ world was paved, in part, by her memorable appearance on season 2 of The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip. This spin-off series, which brings together former Housewives from various franchises, served as a perfect reintroduction for Taylor and a bridge to her RHOC return. On Ultimate Girls Trip, she reunited with several familiar faces, notably Tamra Judge, who is also making a highly anticipated comeback for RHOC Season 17. Their established friendship from UGT provides Taylor with an immediate ally and a familiar face in the new group, easing her transition significantly.
Beyond Tamra, Taylor shared that she also had a prior acquaintance with Heather Dubrow, another prominent figure on RHOC. However, the biggest and most pleasant surprise for Taylor has been her burgeoning friendship with Emily Simpson. This connection seems to have quickly blossomed into a genuine bond, as Taylor enthusiastically shared with us. “The biggest surprise for me has been getting to know Emily. She’s really fun,” Taylor told HollywoodLife. “And she speaks her mind. She’s very straightforward. You know where you stand with her. And we just had a lot of fun together.” Emily Simpson, known for her no-nonsense attitude, quick wit, and fierce loyalty, appears to be an ideal match for Taylor’s desire for authenticity and straightforwardness after her past experiences. This new friendship promises to be a central and heartwarming storyline as Taylor integrates into the Orange County social scene, offering viewers a glimpse into the formation of new alliances within an established cast.
Had so much fun joining the #RHOC panel with these awesome ladies and can’t wait for you to see Season 17. 💋 #BravoCon pic.twitter.com/B15JSaIKcL
— Taylor Armstrong (@TaylorArmstrong) October 17, 2022
Behind the Scenes: What to Expect from RHOC Season 17
As filming for RHOC Season 17 progresses, Taylor Armstrong offered a tantalizing glimpse into the group’s dynamics and the emotional depth viewers can anticipate. Despite the inherent challenges of joining an established cast with complex histories, Taylor teased that the ladies have already experienced “emotional moments together.” This suggests that the season will not shy away from the raw, authentic interactions that define the Real Housewives franchise. The blend of new perspectives and old grievances is likely to create compelling television, with Taylor’s own emotional journey adding another layer of resonance.
Crucially, Taylor emphasized the welcoming atmosphere she’s encountered, which has significantly contributed to her positive experience. “I feel like as a cast we’re really bonding. And they’ve been very welcoming for me coming into their flock of ladies,” she shared. This indicates a genuine effort from the existing RHOC cast members to integrate Taylor, creating a supportive environment that allows for true connections to form. Such bonding, especially early in a new Housewife’s tenure, bodes well for the season’s authenticity and emotional impact. Her presence, coupled with the return of Tamra Judge, is expected to invigorate the series, offering both nostalgic familiarity and fresh, exciting storylines. Taylor’s ability to forge these connections, even amidst the existing “history” and drama, highlights her personal growth and her readiness to embrace this new chapter with an open heart. “So I think you’re gonna see some emotion,” she concluded, promising a season rich with heartfelt moments, intense discussions, and the authentic human experience that has kept viewers hooked on the Real Housewives for years. Fans are eagerly awaiting to see how Taylor’s unique history and present happiness will intertwine with the fiery personalities and long-standing sagas of the Orange County housewives.
Taylor Armstrong’s Enduring Legacy in Reality TV
Taylor Armstrong’s journey across Real Housewives franchises is not just a personal triumph but also solidifies her enduring legacy in the realm of reality television. Her initial time on RHOBH was marked by a deeply personal and often painful narrative, showcasing her vulnerability and resilience in the face of profound adversity. Her ability to navigate these public struggles and emerge stronger resonated deeply with audiences, establishing her as a figure of strength and survival.
Her return on The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip provided a transitional space, allowing fans to reconnect with a more settled and joyful Taylor, while also reminding them of her sharp wit and engaging personality. Now, as the first Housewife to officially switch mainline franchises, Taylor is setting a groundbreaking precedent. This move demonstrates the dynamic nature of reality TV and the potential for beloved personalities to evolve and thrive in new environments. Taylor’s story is one of rebirth, proving that second acts can be more fulfilling and authentic than the first, even under the intense scrutiny of reality television. Her presence on RHOC promises to inject a unique blend of history, humor, and heart, confirming her status as a pioneering and captivating figure in the Real Housewives universe.
As The Real Housewives of Orange County Season 17 unfolds, viewers will undoubtedly be captivated by Taylor Armstrong’s fresh perspective and her journey of integration. Her candidness at BravoCon 2022 hints at a season filled with genuine emotion, surprising connections, and the compelling drama that fans have come to expect. Taylor’s historic franchise switch is more than just a casting decision; it’s a testament to her personal evolution and her enduring appeal in the ever-changing landscape of reality television.