Podcast Summary: Watch What Crappens – Episode #2618: RHONY S15E07: Get Out of Dodge
Introduction
In Episode #2618 of Watch What Crappens, hosts Ben Mandelker and Ronnie Karam delve into the tumultuous events of The Real Housewives of New York (RHONY) Season 15, Episode 7, titled "Get Out of Dodge." Released on November 13, 2024, the episode explores the escalating drama among the cast members, focusing on interpersonal conflicts, scandalous rumors, and the often absurd plotlines that define the show.
Opening Banter and Show Dynamics
The episode begins with Ben and Ronnie sharing light-hearted personal anecdotes before transitioning into their main discussion about RHONY. Ben humorously comments on his camera’s effect on his black shirt, likening it to sequins, which Ronnie amusingly mistakes for a "shiny sequin outfit."
Notable Quote:
- Ben Mandelker [03:43]: "I'm wearing a black shirt, which is apparently reacting to my camera because I've got a green screen. And you know what? It's making my shirt look like it's full of sequins because it's jazzy and sparkling."
Episode Overview: Dodging Rumors
The hosts summarize the episode titled "Dodging Rumors," highlighting that the season's overarching plot appears to be the absence of substantial storylines, leading the cast to fabricate drama to keep viewers engaged. They particularly focus on Brynn's behavior, criticizing her for spreading unfounded rumors and engaging in passive-aggressive tactics.
Key Plot Points:
- Brynn’s Deception: Brynn is depicted as the antagonist who fabricates rumors about Rebecca Minkoff’s pregnancy, leading to unnecessary conflicts.
- Aaron and Rebecca’s Rivalry: The episode showcases the strained relationship between Aaron and Rebecca, exacerbated by Brynn's manipulations.
- Jessel’s Involvement: Jessel is portrayed as the unwitting victim of the rumors, struggling to maintain her dignity amidst the chaos.
Notable Quotes:
- Ronnie Karam [06:09]: "This episode is called Dodging Rumors... There is nothing in the arsenal, and I still enjoy it."
- Ben Mandelker [07:13]: "We want people to engage with people honestly... it's a big problem."
Detailed Analysis of Key Scenes
-
Lunch Scene with Aaron and Rebecca:
- Brynn’s Insinuations: Brynn accuses Rebecca of being a "compulsive liar," which Rebecca dismisses with grace, highlighting her success and resilience.
Notable Quote:
- Ronnie Karam [07:47]: "I'm just trying to get something on TV. You got to make a show. This isn't about honesty."
-
Scientology Discussions:
- The conversation shifts to Rebecca's affiliation with Scientology, with Ronnie and Ben expressing disdain and skepticism toward the organization.
Notable Quotes:
- Ronnie Karam [09:32]: "It's just a warm hug, a cookie that you can smell baking outside. You leave the cookie on the table and we'll murder your family."
- Ben Mandelker [09:46]: "Rebecca, she literally goes... Like, how you could go to Soul Cycle and say that's a spiritual experience for you? That's like, what's, that's what Scientology."
-
Dodgeball Game:
- A significant portion of the episode revolves around a dodgeball game at Chelsea Piers, where tensions escalate as Brynn aggressively targets Rebecca, culminating in Rebecca being hit in the stomach, leading to dramatic fallout.
Notable Quotes:
- Ben Mandelker [80:28]: "It's like a lot of dodgeball. A lot of... I’m so..."
- Ronnie Karam [80:48]: "Bryn's really harsh at dodgeball... she even throws it so hard and aims at everyone’s head."
-
Pregnancy Rumors:
- Brynn amplifies rumors about Rebecca’s pregnancy, causing a ripple of gossip and distrust among the cast. The hosts dissect how these rumors are unfounded yet are treated as serious plot developments.
Notable Quotes:
- Ronnie Karam [09:52]: "Everybody who just, you know, lying on camera... it's a big problem."
- Ben Mandelker [81:13]: "So, Rebecca is pregnant. She's pregnant by someone else... that was a good one."
Interpersonal Conflicts and Character Dynamics
Ben and Ronnie critically analyze the cast's dynamics, focusing on the lack of genuine interactions and the reliance on manufactured drama to sustain viewer interest.
-
Brynn vs. Jessel and Jenna:
- Brynn is criticized for her passive-aggressive behavior and attempts to tarnish Jessel’s reputation by labeling her as "boring" and "basic."
Notable Quotes:
- Ronnie Karam [09:27]: "Like, why not just show up and lie? What is the point in compulsive lying?"
- Ben Mandelker [10:03]: "Rebecca Minkoff has had a baby with an alien. It's true. Go, go tell everyone."
-
Jenna’s Role:
- Jenna is portrayed as a mediator who struggles to manage the chaos, occasionally making questionable comments that further confuse the narrative.
Notable Quotes:
- Ben Mandelker [44:04]: "If Rebecca's allowed to come on here and say, be a Scientologist, I'm allowed to come on here and say, make out with another dude."
- Ronnie Karam [67:03]: "She is this mysterious, hidden character who stirs up drama without contributing anything meaningful."
Hosts’ Critique and Suggestions
Ben and Ronnie express their frustration with the show's direction, suggesting that Bravo considers a reboot or a cast overhaul to inject fresh energy into RHONY.
Notable Quotes:
- Ben Mandelker [84:26]: "Maybe they should just start over. We don't need that anymore. They should bring new, crazier people."
- Ronnie Karam [86:55]: "Just do something different. We need real craziness from actual rich people, not this influencer-driven drama."
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The episode concludes with Ben and Ronnie reflecting on the overall quality of RHONY Season 15, Episode 7. While they acknowledge some entertaining moments, they largely criticize the lack of authentic storytelling and the overreliance on manufactured drama. They call for Bravo to enhance the show's content by introducing more genuine and unpredictable elements that align with the Real Housewives brand.
Notable Quotes:
- Ronnie Karam [86:55]: "Make us believe in you again. Do something different."
- Ben Mandelker [87:32]: "Someone online might suggest a combo cast, but that's not what RHONY is about. We need real craziness from real, rich people."
Supporting Advertisements and Sponsors
Throughout the podcast, Ben and Ronnie intersperse their discussion with advertisements for services like Philo TV, Audible, and Hims and Hers, promoting various offers and trials. Towards the end, they also acknowledge their Patreon supporters and upcoming live shows.
Notable Advertisement Highlights:
- Philo TV Promotion:
- Ronnie Karam [02:30]: "Start your free online visit today@4hers.com crappins."
- Weight Loss Program:
- Ben Mandelker [02:41]: "Hims and hers connects you with a medical provider who will work with you to determine your best treatment option."
Closing Remarks
Ben and Ronnie wrap up the episode by teasing future content, including discussions on The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, and reminding listeners about their Patreon and live shows.
Notable Quote:
- Ben Mandelker [87:32]: "We'll talk to you tomorrow with some Real Housewives of Salt Lake City."
Final Takeaway
Watch What Crappens Episode #2618 offers a candid and often critical look at RHONY Season 15, Episode 7. Ben Mandelker and Ronnie Karam provide insightful commentary on the show’s current trajectory, emphasizing the need for more authentic and engaging content to revitalize the series. Their blend of humor, sharp critique, and personal anecdotes makes for an entertaining and informative podcast episode that both fans and newcomers can appreciate.
