Watch What Crappens - Episode #2612: RHONY S15E06: Smells Like Mean Spirit

Release Date: November 6, 2024

Hosts: Ben Mandelker & Ronnie Karam
Platform: Wondery

Introduction

In Episode #2612 of Watch What Crappens, hosts Ben Mandelker and Ronnie Karam dive deep into the latest drama unfolding in The Real Housewives of New York (RHONY) Season 15, Episode 6, aptly titled "Smells Like Mean Spirit." This episode explores escalating tensions, intricate relationship dynamics, and the quirky antics that make RHONY a staple for Bravo enthusiasts.

Jessel Takes Center Stage

The episode opens with Ben and Ronnie discussing Jessel's newfound prominence in the show. After being a breakout star in the previous season, Jessel finally gets the spotlight she deserves, much to the hosts' amusement.

Ben [05:12]: "Jessel was the breakout star of last year. Why has it taken like five or six episodes for Bravo to realize that they need to focus on their star more?"

Despite her increased visibility, Jessel's actions continue to bewilder both the housewives and the audience. Her attempts to mediate conflicts often lead to more confusion, exemplified by her interaction with Aaron over mezcal.

Ronnie [07:02]: "It's morality trolling. Right?"

Raquel's Art World and Familial Struggles

Raquel emerges as another focal point, navigating the insular and often hostile art community. Her relationship struggles, particularly with her mother, add layers of drama to her storyline.

Ben [33:21]: "She's like, I was the final product. But I wasn't just the model. I controlled the hair and the makeup and everything in those paintings."

The hosts critique Raquel's handling of her personal and professional life, highlighting the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a cutthroat industry.

Ronnie [35:35]: "This seems like part and parcel for the art world. How many stories do we hear about famous artists juggling multiple relationships?"

Engagement and Communication Issues

A significant plotline revolves around Jessel and Pavit's strained communication regarding expanding their family. Jessel's desire for another child clashes with Pavit's evident disinterest, leading to heated discussions and attempts at reconciliation.

Ronnie [52:44]: "Parents don't want it, both parents should want it. But at this point I'm not sure he even wanted the first two."

Ben and Ronnie analyze the couple's inability to align their desires, emphasizing the importance of mutual agreement in major life decisions.

Ben [52:31]: "I don't know how to remedy that, but I don't think any baby should be brought into the world if they're, you know, no one wants."

Cinco de Mayo Mezcal Party

The hosts shift focus to Aaron and Abe's Cinco de Mayo party, where mezcal is introduced as the star beverage. The event serves as a backdrop for further character interactions and misunderstandings.

Ben [61:46]: "She didn't bring anything to America."

Jessel's over-the-top promotion of mezcal contrasts with the party's laid-back vibe, leading to comedic moments and heightened tensions.

Ronnie [62:38]: "Chief separatists. So society's like, what do you mean being separate?"

'Basic' Commentary and Character Dynamics

A recurring theme in the episode is the critique of certain behaviors labeled as "basic." Jessel confronts Uber's disdain for using a glass, sparking a debate on superficial judgments and underlying insecurities.

Jessel [75:48]: "You are a Basic who uses a glass?"

Ronnie [75:04]: "Aaron's like, you are the most basic here."

Ben and Ronnie use this exchange to highlight the shallow yet pervasive nature of such labels within social circles.

Ben [77:18]: "None of them get what 'basic' means."

Climactic Confrontations and Resolutions

The episode culminates in a series of confrontations at the Mezcal party. Accusations fly, friendships are tested, and alliances are questioned as characters navigate their complex relationships.

Ben [80:17]: "This is truly a family business."

Ronnie [82:43]: "It's Leslie Plunkett. Let's give a kissarino to Lisalino."

In the end, despite the chaos, Ben and Ronnie remind listeners of the enduring appeal of RHONY's drama and the unyielding bond among the housewives.

Ben [82:20]: "No matter if it's a good day or it's a bad day, we're going to be here because we love you guys."

Conclusion

Episode #2612 of Watch What Crappens offers an incisive and humorous take on RHONY's latest developments. Ben Mandelker and Ronnie Karam adeptly dissect the show's intricate dynamics, offering listeners both entertainment and insightful commentary. From Jessel's quest for spotlight to Raquel's artistic battles and the couple's fertility dilemmas, this episode encapsulates the essence of what makes RHONY a compelling reality series.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben [05:12]: "Jessel was the breakout star of last year. Why has it taken like five or six episodes for Bravo to realize that they need to focus on their star more?"

• Ronnie [35:35]: "This seems like part and parcel for the art world. How many stories do we hear about famous artists juggling multiple relationships?"

• Ben [52:31]: "I don't know how to remedy that, but I don't think any baby should be brought into the world if they're, you know, no one wants."

• Ronnie [75:48]: "Aaron's like, you are the most basic here."

• Ben [82:20]: "No matter if it's a good day or it's a bad day, we're going to be here because we love you guys."

For more insightful and entertaining podcast summaries, listen to Watch What Crappens on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts.