#2624 Crappy Hour 11/18/24: Kempire Guests to Talk RHOP, RHOC, RHOSLC and Teddi’s Cheating Heart

Summary

Watch What Crappens - Detailed Episode Summary

Release Date: November 19, 2024
Hosts: Ben Mandelker & Ronnie Karam
Guest: Kempire

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Introduction and Guest Appearance [02:45 - 03:35]

The episode kicks off with Ronnie welcoming listeners to "Watch What Crappens: Crappy Hour Live," introducing Ben Mandelker and their special guest, Kempire. The hosts express excitement about Kempire's appearance, highlighting his prominence and upcoming show at the Bourbon Room in Los Angeles.

Notable Quote:

• Ronnie [02:45]: "Well, don't be hitting on twinks and bars, then. Like, what do you want from me?"

Guest Introduction and Background [03:35 - 05:28]

Kempire shares his recent move to Los Angeles, mentioning minimal jet lag despite a three-hour time difference. He discusses his "Kempire After Dark" live experience tour, which has expanded to include cities like Nashville, Atlanta, New York, D.C., and upcoming international locations such as London.

Notable Quotes:

• Kempire [04:08]: "I'm a little, you know, I'm getting there. I'm in LA now."
• Ben [04:55]: "I never took flip flops off."

Discussion on New York vs. Los Angeles [05:28 - 06:14]

The conversation shifts to the challenges of living in New York versus the relaxed lifestyle in Los Angeles. Ben reminisces about missing New York despite its hectic nature, while Ronnie emphasizes the ease of LA living.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben [05:05]: "It's really rough."
• Ronnie [05:06]: "New York is hard."

Bravo Show Insights: Real Housewives of Atlanta [06:14 - 16:17]

Kempire delves into the latest happenings in "Real Housewives of Atlanta," focusing on controversies surrounding Kenya Moore. He discusses Kenya's allegations of distributing explicit images and the ensuing fallout, including her temporary removal from the show and subsequent attempts to reshape her narrative.

Key Points:

• Kenya's Controversy: Distributing explicit images labeled as "revenge porn," leading to her suspension.
• Narrative Control: Kenya's efforts to change public perception through interviews and media statements.
• Host Analysis: Kempire critiques Kenya's accountability, suggesting she's manipulating the narrative to repair her image.

Notable Quotes:

• Kempire [13:50]: "She's saying what she needs to say in order to prepare the image."
• Ben [13:05]: "I thought it was so funny when Kenya was like, 'I take full accountability.'"

Potomac's Rebound and Cast Dynamics [16:17 - 25:00]

The hosts and Kempire discuss the resurgence of "Real Housewives of Potomac." They highlight the improved dynamics and character developments, particularly praising Stacy and Jazzy for adding fresh energy to the show. Kempire contrasts the genuine interactions of the original cast members with the newer, more self-produced participants.

Key Points:

• Stacy's Authenticity: Stacy provides a refreshing perspective, contrasting with other cast members.
• Jazzy's Development: Initially perceived as inconsequential, Jazzy's evolving storyline adds depth.
• Originals vs. New Cast: The chemistry among original members like Karen and Giselle remains a strong point.

Notable Quotes:

• Kempire [24:36]: "Stacy is very genuine."
• Ronnie [25:09]: "It's like solvable mysteries."

Discussion on New Cast Members [25:00 - 36:04]

The conversation moves to new cast members in various Bravo shows. Kiana from "Real Housewives of Potomac" is discussed, with Kempire expressing cautious optimism about her integration into the show. The hosts critique Mia and Ink's storylines, particularly addressing Mia's credibility and her impact on the show's brand.

Key Points:

• Kiana's Integration: Kempire appreciates her efforts to blend into the existing dynamic.
• Mia and Ink's Storylines: Concerns about Mia's authenticity and the potential dilution of the show's brand.
• Character Development: Emphasis on how new cast members can either enhance or undermine the show's appeal.

Notable Quotes:

• Ronnie [26:04]: "She just ruined cheating for me, Teddy."
• Kempire [35:33]: "I think Stacy genuinely wants something with him, but maybe does not have a D.A.R."

Salt Lake City's Reality Show Insights [36:04 - 52:57]

The hosts examine "Real Housewives of Salt Lake City" (RHOSLC), discussing its portrayal of Mormonism and the cast's dynamics. Kempire praises Heather for adding a unique perspective but criticizes her for attempting to fit into the "cool girl" archetype. The chemistry among OGs like Karen and Giselle is lauded, while concerns are raised about new alliances and self-awareness clashing with authentic interactions.

Key Points:

• Heather's Role: Appreciated for her insights into Mormonism but criticized for lack of authenticity.
• OGs' Chemistry: Karen and Giselle maintain strong, engaging interactions that resonate with fans.
• Production Influence: Speculation that production manipulates cast dynamics to enhance viewer engagement.

Notable Quotes:

• Ronnie [54:09]: "Her first one is that she got kicked out of it."
• Kempire [55:54]: "She adds this perspective about Mormonism that a lot of people can't add on the cast."

Other Bravo Shows and Future Projections [52:57 - 66:09]

The discussion broadens to include other Bravo productions such as "Real Housewives of Dubai," "State of the Union," and "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills." The hosts and Kempire express skepticism about the longevity and authenticity of these shows, particularly criticizing the pranks and scripted elements that may alienate audiences.

Key Points:

• Real Housewives of Dubai: Seen as a costly and underperforming venture, leading to its cancellation or pause.
• State of the Union: Praised for its strong season compared to other shows.
• Beverly Hills Dynamics: Anticipation of drama between Dorit and Kyle, with skepticism about its authenticity.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben [40:36]: "This was a true Jump the Shark moment for Bravo."
• Ronnie [55:32]: "It's just like, they just go down a super villain route and it just ruins it."

Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up [66:09 - 71:03]

As the episode nears its end, the hosts reflect on the overall state of Bravo's reality TV offerings. They emphasize the importance of authenticity and genuine chemistry among cast members, expressing hope that future seasons will maintain or improve upon these elements. Kempire shares his anticipation for upcoming shows and ongoing dynamics within the Bravo lineup.

Notable Quotes:

• Ronnie [69:08]: "She's just so fishy about the chick."
• Kempire [70:15]: "Follow American Scandal on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts."

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Conclusion

This episode of "Watch What Crappens" offers an in-depth analysis of various Bravo reality shows, with a focus on cast dynamics, authenticity, and production influences. Kempire's insights, coupled with the hosts' sharp critiques, provide listeners with a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of Bravo's reality TV offerings. Notable moments include the discussion on Kenya Moore's controversies in "Real Housewives of Atlanta," the resurgence of "Real Housewives of Potomac," and the evolving dynamics in "Real Housewives of Salt Lake City." The episode underscores the delicate balance between scripted elements and genuine interactions in maintaining audience engagement.

Key Takeaways:

• Authentic chemistry among cast members remains crucial for the success of Bravo's reality shows.
• Production manipulations can both enhance and undermine the perceived authenticity of the cast dynamics.
• Controversies and scandals, when handled ineffectively, can lead to audience disengagement and potential show cancellations.

Final Notable Quote:

• Ben [69:06]: "Someone in chat said, but you're talking about it. I mean, yeah, because you know, you have to complain to the writers when the storyline's not working."

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For more exclusive content, video recaps, and access to the Discord server, support the hosts at www.patreon.com/watchwhatcrappens. Listen to "Watch What Crappens" on the Wondery App or your preferred podcast platform.

Transcript

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[Ben]

Hi, Ronnie. What's going on?

[Ronnie]

Well, I suck at surprises because we don't even have this legend off camera yet.

[Kempire]

Okay.

[Ronnie]

Just kept him right on here because we were talking, we were talking trash before. Please welcome the man, the myth, the legend, the handsome, the gorgeous. Hello.

[Ben]

Hi, Kempire.

[Ronnie]

You guys doing great?

[Ben]

How are you doing?

[Kempire]

I'm a little. Not jet lagged. I don't think this constitute three hour difference constitutes this jet lag. I'm a little, you know, I'm getting there. I'm in LA now.

[Ronnie]

Yes. Are you, are you getting your LA shot? LA is not really like a time with your head, but it's in LA with your head. Like there's a lot of exploding faces etc, etc. Are you experiencing dysmorphia yet?

[Kempire]

Not yet. Not yet. Literally like I'm hours here. So not yet.

[Ronnie]

Have you started touching your face and wondering what you need to get done and like wondering if you're still moving? It's like, are my brows moving?

[Kempire]

How long have you guys lived in LA?

[Ben]

I am coming up. Well, I've been here for 23 years. I moved here in 2001 right after I graduated college. So at this point I'm just like an LA person. I'm from New York originally, but like, you know, la, LA is the vibe for me.

[Kempire]

Don't miss New York.

[Ben]

I mean, I do. I miss New York. I mean, I'm going to go back next week for Thanksgiving, so I'll be there. But like also like New York is.

[Ronnie]

It's, it's hard.

[Ben]

It's really rough.

[Ronnie]

New York is hard. I lived there for 10 years and that was just too hard. It was snowing on me, raining on me, splashing on me, people pushing me. One day I was like, fuck this. I came to LA kind of as a break and then I was like, I'm not leaving here. This is easy. I never, I never took flip flops off. But we still go back to New York like once or Ren goes a lot more than me. I go once or twice a year. I love it there.

[Kempire]

Well, that's cool though. At least you guys go back. I mean, I feel like people that move let leave New York normally don't come back often.

[Ben]

I mean, I mean, I don't know if I'd ever go back to live, to be honest. Like, you just get so spoiled with Los Angeles. Like New York, you are in. You know, it's all the stereotypes that people say. Like, you're in a shoebox, there's rats everywhere, it's too much. And then when people are like, oh my God, like, but the traffic in la, I'm like, yes. I get to be in a box listening to my own music. Music. Not talking or dealing with any other humans, as opposed to being cramped onto a train with someone with their iPhone out with no headphones playing some sort of God awful video. Like, no, thank you.

[Ronnie]

La.

[Kempire]

Because of this conversation.

[Ronnie]

All right, well, you are in la, so tell us what, you're here. You're doing your show Wednesday. Yeah. At the Bourbon Room. Give us the deep room.

[Kempire]

My first LA show, I came here last year after BravoCon. So I was like, I have to come back and I have to do the Kempire After Dark live experience, which I've been doing all year. You know, we did Nashville, we did Atlanta, we did New York, we did dc, where. So we're coming back and then we're going to take an international after this. Yeah, next month we're going to London.

[Ben]

Oh, my goodness. When are you going to be in London?

[Kempire]

December 8th. December 8th.

[Ben]

Wow.

[Kempire]

And my London, my London show really sparked the Kempire After Dark tour because I did a quick meetup when I was in London last year and I said the next time I go back to London, I want to do an actual live show. So it really is a full circle moment.

[Ronnie]

Love it. It's so. It's so fun because people clap there, but they clap in an accent. You're going to love it.

[Ben]

British. I'm British. That's how they actual clap.

[Ronnie]

I was watching Harry Potter there and one of the kids turned to his mom and went, mommy. It's just awful, isn't it? Evil people. I was like, I love it here. I just want to be in a place where kids talk like that. I just loved it. All right, well, let's get on. Everybody Also, follow Kempire, obviously. YouTube, his main home, Kempire. Very easy. And then TikTok the Kempire, and Instagram the Kempire. Right?

[Kempire]

Yes.

[Ronnie]

Right. Okay, perfect. I want to fuck it up right at the beginning, which is just my brand. So let's get in. Into it. What are you. Watch. First of all, you've had a lot of experience with Bravo. No. You were a producer over there, weren't you?

[Kempire]

No. Who told you that?

[Ronnie]

I am reading comments. Know that. But the things I learned from comments, I would never.

[Kempire]

I think people want to believe that. No, I love that.

[Ben]

Oh, I was never.

[Kempire]

Andy blocked. How could I be a producer?

[Ben]

He blocked you. Why is he blocked?

[Ronnie]

What do you do? You were on. You were on there. I saw you on Bravo.

[Ben]

I feel like they're always putting you on.

[Ronnie]

On.

[Ben]

On Bravo. Like, they're always like, well, bloggers set. You don't. You can't believe what the bloggers are saying. And they'll, like, put you up and be like, this is what I think.

[Kempire]

I mean, literally, I'm on the OC this season three times. But, I mean, look, I've told this story multiple times. I'm not really sure exactly why he blocked me. I'm assuming it's because I did a story where during Pride, he was in the club and someone took a video of him and doing my job. I reported on said video that was going viral on social media. I think him and a lot of fans thought I was the one at the club during Pride in New York City at my big age, on a Saturday night. Yeah. I already told you guys, I'm a homebody. I think he assumed that it was me. Oh, the video footage.

[Ronnie]

Oh, whatever. Well, don't be hitting on twinks and bars, then. Like, what do you want from me? Like, we're in a video world. Okay. What, are you gonna bl. Block the entire subway system? They tape your ass, too? What are you gonna do?

[Ben]

That's shocking.

[Kempire]

I'm assuming that's why he blocked me because. Yeah.

[Ronnie]

Oh, whatever. Justice for Kempire. That's crazy.

[Ben]

Yeah.

[Kempire]

Thank you.

[Ben]

Yes. Thank you.

[Ronnie]

What are you. What do you. Do you have any messiness from these. From these appearances that you make? Like, do you have people who try to get with you and influence you, like, be really nice to you so they can influence your opinion and stuff.

[Kempire]

Like that all the time? I'm sure you guys get it too.

[Ronnie]

A little bit, but we're not very easy. I'm a bitch no matter what. So they usually disappear pretty quickly.

[Ben]

Yeah. Not Too much. It's actually kind of wild.

[Kempire]

And it's funny because I'm surprised that they don't realize at this particular point that you can't influence me. No matter. Even if you're nice to me, I'll be nice back to you. But, yeah, I've had quite a few celebs and Bravo liberties that have tried to become friendly so they can influence what I'm going to say, and then they learn quickly that I'm not going to change my mind.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. What are we going to do? Like, you know, being too nice to you is going to ruin my life. Okay. So sorry. Buckle up, buttercup. Someone in here is asking for you to tell the Caroline Stanbury makeup story.

[Kempire]

Oh, my gosh. Who said that?

[Ben]

She says you're a producer and you know the inside track.

[Ronnie]

As a producer of Real Housewives of Atlanta, you should know, right?

[Kempire]

Well, here's the thing. Last year, this time, I went to BravoCon, and I was in BravoCon, hanging out, and this random woman came up to me and. And just started saying all kinds of craziness to me. Basically accosted me in the middle of the. The Bravo Bazaar. And I'm like, ma'am, do I know who you are? I don't even know who you are. Only to come to find out that she was Caroline Stanberry's makeup artist.

[Ronnie]

Oh.

[Kempire]

And it was not the only time that this woman came up to me at the Bravo. At Bravo Con. She came up to me three times at Bravo.

[Ben]

Oh, she's pressed.

[Kempire]

And from what I heard, executives at Bravo found out about it, and she was banned later for when they were doing confessionals in New York.

[Ronnie]

Whoa. Well, what was she so upset about?

[Kempire]

I. I assumed that she was upset that she. Maybe some of the things that I said about Caroline Stanberry, I just feel like someone issued her as, like, the bulldog to come after me. Because I was like, either you mixing me up because you never said my name. She just kept on coming up to me. I'm like, this is weird, lady. Get away from me.

[Ronnie]

That is weird. And I'm surprised that Caroline Stanberry has a makeup artist with the tongue. I would assume that she just cuts them out so they can just, like, you know, kind of. Maybe it was like, Sergio, makeup artist, talking to her.

[Ben]

Maybe it's just Sergio and drag. It's like, oh, you stay away from Carolina.

[Kempire]

Never thought about that. It's very possible.

[Ben]

You never know. He shows up in a lot of places.

[Ronnie]

Okay, let's get on with some goss. So so far, we don't have a ton from Real Housewives of Atlanta this season. We do have the big thing that happened in the beginning, which was Kenya getting in trouble. For her, I don't even know that you call it revenge porn, but the dick pics of the new lady in the party and calling her a whore and stuff. And, I mean, it's like, typical Kenya fair. But I guess that doesn't really work as well in. In 24:24. At the time, we heard that she was taken off the show and put on either pause or fired. You know, and then she was threatening, I think, to sue or something. What's once that happened? But then I heard that she hasn't been on pause at all. What do you know about all of that?

[Kempire]

Kenya is behind the scenes trying to change the narrative. Because I've heard from different sources that don't communicate. And at my Atlanta show, they confirmed some people that were actually there. What went down. Because, remember, Kenya denied that it was revenge porn. But we have to remember, in a work environment, they're not going to investigate revenge porn. They're going to investigate improper behavior, breaking, you know, code, you know, policy. So she's. She's playing with words. She's playing with semantics. As you know, she just recently did an interview on Tamron hall talking about taking ownership, confirming that what people were saying was out there is actually what went down. So right now, Kenya's not looking like the reliable reporter. And I already know from behind the scenes, she's been trying to, you know, put stories and things out there even before she did this Tamron hall interview, only for doubt the rumor was true, that this is what she did at her own event.

[Ben]

What did you think about her saying that she takes full accountability? Do you believe she's taking full accountability, or do you think she's saying what she has to say to sort of, like, repair the image?

[Kempire]

Here. Here's the thing. She's saying what she needs to say in order to prepare the image. Because if you see the full interview. Yes, that clip went viral in regards to her taking accountability. She takes accountability in that moment, but then makes excuses for it and laughs about it.

[Ben]

Yeah.

[Kempire]

And Tamron hall really gave it to her. I really appreciated her, you know, like, not just mincing words with Kenya, because why would you do that at your own event?

[Ben]

Yeah. I thought it was so funny when. When Kenya was like, I take full accountability. I take accountability for my actions. But when there's a child involved and I'm threatened and I've never been threatened. When there's been a child involved, you know, I'll do, like. It's like one of those things, like, okay, let me reach for the child excuse for why I behaved terribly.

[Kempire]

Yeah. And I think motherhood cloak.

[Ronnie]

I'm a mother. How dare you, lady. You put someone sucking a dick up at your. At your show. Are you gonna go talk about that at your take your daughter to work day? Be quiet over there. I'm the mother.

[Kempire]

Sorry.

[Ronnie]

What were you gonna say? Interrupted you. I mean, I interrupted. I just assume you'll keep talking after.

[Kempire]

No, no, I lost my train of thought because I was like, wait. I was like, wait. Yes. With Kenya, the rumors. There were rumors out there that she was going to sue. I've heard from sources that that was something that she was allegedly considering. And so it was very interesting to see this new, you know, interview that she did with Tamron hall, because she was backtracking that and saying, you know, I talk to Andy all the time. He's been a great resource. They. They're my family. But word on the street, they were considering getting rid of her when they were doing this whole reboot. She was. She wasn't their top choice to return, allegedly.

[Ronnie]

Well, how could she be? I mean, she spent seasons, like, just not showing up. Really. You know, she's really. She's really spent a few seasons where she's just like, meh, I don't want to. Or then she'll just show up and get nasty just to do something, you know, just be like, I work today. Bye. Just stop by to try and ruin someone's life. All right, I'm going back to bed or whatever, you know?

[Ben]

Do you feel like. Do you feel like Kenya has been checked out? Because I sort of feel like ever since. Ever. Ever since Mark, I think we've been seeing kind of a different Kenya who's had to keep one eye on, like, her reputation for court proceedings. And so I feel like. Like, the Kenya, the villainess who we, like, know and love. I feel like we haven't really had her for a few years. What do you think?

[Kempire]

I think she was excited to not be the villain or take that villain role anymore. And I think Kenya, when she is with the right cast, can shine. When I heard the rumors about what went down at her hair spot, I didn't believe them. I was like, no, she would never do that. She's smarter than that. She's a grown woman. She's a pageant queen. No, she would never do that. Only for it to be True. Which for me, gives desperate. Like, you were desperate to have a moment. You were desperate for your hair spa to be featured on the show. And for me, it had nothing to do with the possible threats to your life or to your child that motivated what you decided to do then.

[Ronnie]

Yeah, you know, I was actually surprised, too, because there were rumors going around when that happened. Remember the fake pictures? Who was posting the fake pictures? I think it was Yolanda Pfister, I'm assuming, because they always post like that. It's so funny. Someone was posting fake pictures of the event where it was, you know, a lady next to a gigantic dick, and they were like, that is not true. That did not happen. And so I. You know, I don't even know what's real. But, yeah, I remember when they came.

[Kempire]

Out, I was like, this is not real, because I think it was live. And my. My chat was saying, the pictures are out, the pictures are out. So I found.

[Ronnie]

I was like, this is not, like, clearly not real. But then I was also like, well, who complained at this event? Because, I mean, if you're going to be exposed, this is the way to do it. It's like the best sex tape I've ever seen. The lighting was good. The penis looked great. This is how to do it, you know?

[Ben]

Yeah.

[Ronnie]

God, mine wouldn't be like that. It would just be like FUPA and some weird shadow, you know, the Poopa. And also, Kenya Moore is finalized. Her divorce is. Wait, is it finalized? Because she says it's liberating, but maybe it's just coming up, like, Ashley Darby, whose divorce is always right around the corner. Do you think Ashley is going to get divorced on Potomac? Yeah. Do you believe her? Do you believe her deadline? I think her deadline already passed. Right.

[Kempire]

It passed already. But she did say on Watch what happens live this week that she will make an announcement. And then Andy chimed in and said, oh, at the reunion. Because they're filming the reunion, apparently.

[Ben]

Got it.

[Ronnie]

Oh, so she's going to announce it at the reunion. Oh, my gosh. Really? Are we holding our divorce. Our divorce news? I don't believe it.

[Kempire]

Me either.

[Ronnie]

But I love Ashley. I love Ashley's just compulsively lying little ass. She never tells the truth about anything. Do you think? I think she just lies and lies, and I just love it. I fall for it every time because she's just so cute while she does it.

[Kempire]

I feel like a lot of people in Potomac lie. Yeah, all of them are lying.

[Ben]

Like Karen.

[Ronnie]

Not Karen.

[Kempire]

Not Karen.

[Ronnie]

Karen's not lying.

[Kempire]

This season?

[Ronnie]

No. Look at her accountability. It's so impressive. She hasn't grieved yet. Did you even know it's passed?

[Ben]

You guys, she cannot talk about this. There's a court case, and she is legally not allowed to discuss certain things at certain times. Okay?

[Kempire]

She can't discuss my hero.

[Ben]

You cannot discuss it whatsoever. Guys, it's an ongoing investigation as to whether when she drove over that traffic median, if the tire marks were hers or was it someone else who had driven over at the same time.

[Kempire]

What about the bottles of. Was it beer in. In her car, too?

[Ronnie]

Yeah. When? Oh, my God. The details were so crazy. The details on that one just kept getting crazier and crazier. And then the counts came out, and there were countless counts. You couldn't even count the counts. I was like, they're still going. That little muppet would even be having problems with that little purple Dracula thing. Would be having trouble with. That's a lot of counts, girl. I don't even think he goes that high. God. Look.

[Ben]

How you feeling?

[Kempire]

Go ahead.

[Ben]

I was gonna say, how do you feel about Potomac this season, by the way? As long as we're talking about Ashley.

[Kempire]

And Karen, I'm enjoying Potomac this season. It's not great, but it's not bad. So remember how bad it's been the last couple of season, how toxic toxic it's gotten. But I'm. I'm loving Stacy. Stacy's refreshing, which is great. I was about to say her gay boyfriend, but her friend.

[Ben]

Yes.

[Kempire]

I'm enjoying her a lot. I was enjoying Jazzy, but now we're finding holes in jazz math, so I'm a little confused by that situation.

[Ronnie]

Oh, the math. The Jazzy math. That's beautiful. And I think that that's actually making me like her, because before, she really didn't have anything. I was like, I mean, I guess you've got a rich boyfriend. That's cool. But now that just, like, trying to pretend she didn't steal some man who is impregnated somebody else, and Jazzy was stealing him, and now she's acting like, oh, no, we had not chosen at that moment. I was like, jazzy, come on now.

[Ben]

I mean, this is what makes her perfect for the cast is that, like, she's very slippery with the truth. And she's also. I think what we saw this week when she had her, like, celebration of Darius is that, like, she's very Potomac and that she's, like. She starts to put on these airs. Like, you know, I am. I'm the first lady. Ronnie called her the first lady earlier today. It's like, she's like, welcome to the luncheon for my boyfriend who just won the Super Bowl. You know, she like immediately steps into that role very happily. And yet when you question her about the finer details of their relationship, like, it so doesn't add up. But it's so hilarious watching her try to explain it. Like, oh yeah, well, when I met him, it was a year later that I found out that he had gotten someone else pregnant a month before. But that was two months before I had met him. So, you know, and I didn't even know. You're like, wait, what commercials?

[Kempire]

Here comes one right now.

[Ben]

We know you're listening because you can't get enough drama, but there are some.

[Ronnie]

Things that should stay drama free.

[Ben]

Like getting birth control, accessing gender affirming care, getting tested for STIs.

[Ronnie]

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[Ben]

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[Ronnie]

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[Ben]

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[Ronnie]

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[Ben]

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[Ronnie]

Required equivalent to $15 a month. New customers on first 3 month plan only speed slower above 40 gigabytes on unlimited plan. Additional taxes, fees and restrictions apply. See Mint Mobile for details. Major math. They should teach it in schools. It's really great. Really? Yeah. They have a New way of doing math. Well, it's new to me because I'm old, but it's called, like, Singapore math, and my sister teaches it, and she's like, it's basically like using logic to solve math. And I was like, but no one has logic. I was like, have you been to the world in 2024? No one uses logic. This is the kind of math.

[Kempire]

Uses math.

[Ronnie]

Exactly.

[Ben]

I know.

[Kempire]

Fortunately.

[Ben]

Yeah. But I think that. I think Potomac is definitely rebounding. I thought last season was. Last season was so bad that I thought we were going to have, like a two to three year, kind of like rebuilding. It is sort of like sports with these shows. Like, when they had. When they have a bad season, it takes, like, some new people to come on, build new chemistry. And then after, like, three years or so, three, maybe even four years, it finally gets back up. I feel like Potomac, just, like, one season, they just turned it around. Like, okay, we're back. We're back to play. Let's forget about last season. And like you said, I think Stacy is great. I think she is. She's, like, providing a different kind of angle, like a different vibe than. She's just not, like, trying to be a reality star. She's just very, like. Like, oh, my God. About everything, which I think is wonderful.

[Kempire]

I think she's being genuine. I think that's what. What connects with people. So many times we see these housewives come on these shows or reality stars in general, because reality TV has been around for so long, they're trying to produce themselves, and very much like on Roni, trying to produce themselves, they don't realize the audience is not stupid. Yes, we like stupid things. We like to watch stupid things. But the audience themselves are very intuitive. They can pick up on this.

[Ben]

Absolutely.

[Kempire]

This is ridiculous. You're lying to us right now.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. I think that's part of the reason we do like it, because we can. We. We can sniff it out. You know, it's like. It's like solvable mysteries.

[Kempire]

Yeah. And I think Stacy is very, very genuine. And that's why I'm worried for her in this new relationship.

[Ronnie]

I'm worried for her, but I'm also wondering what her whole deal is, because, I mean, I think her attitude is genuine and her personality is genuine. This storyline with this guy cannot. I just cannot believe. I just can't believe it. I'm sorry. It's too much. This guy is just. What? And I know we're not supposed to call each other gay, like, if we don't know Right. You're supposed to, like, have this stamp now or someone has to say I'm gay before anybody can speculate on whatever. And I get it, you know, and normally, I'm down with kind of modernizing rules and just kind of. If people need it different, fine. That's fine. I can do that. But in this case, I'm like, are you trolling me? You're just trying to get me to say he's gay? Like, trying to sue me? Like, I feel like it's a trap. I feel like it's a twink trap. It's a bear. Well, he's not a twink trap. He's not a bear trap. What would he be? He's very.

[Ben]

Maybe he just has. Maybe he's. And I love it about his manhood. Maybe he's insecure about. Maybe there's, like, a size issue that he's sheepish about. You know, like, that could be a thing.

[Ronnie]

Well, I can work with any size. Either way, I think.

[Ben]

I think TJ is there fully for the screen time. I mean, he. I've never seen that before. When he told Stacy, when he was like, have you been sharing with the other cast members about us? When they ask you remember you should share about us? I was like, you thirsty? Thirsty man.

[Kempire]

And when I found out he was an actor, because I remember she mentioned that he was trying out to be on qvc, but I didn't realize he was an actor. And I said, oh, wait a minute. And I don't think she is bamboozling us. I think he definitely has ill intentions. I really do believe that Stacy genuinely wants something with him, but maybe does not have a dar.

[Ronnie]

Any dar. What do you think about. No DAR whatsoever?

[Ben]

What do you think about Kiarna as a new cast member?

[Kempire]

Oh, for. Sounds like who? No, Kia. No. No offense. Kiara knew. So I was sort of like, wait, who? No, I like Kiana because I wasn't one of those people that saw Kiana last season, like, oh, make her full time. I was like, no, let me see more of Kiana, and let's. Let's see it play out. So far, I've been enjoying her. I mean, I'm enjoying her so far.

[Ronnie]

You know, I think she's trying, like, I really like an effort, and I think. I think her personality is definitely, like. She's definitely got charisma and stuff. Last year, I didn't get it either, because she didn't really do anything. She had some funny confessionals. But people sing last year, and when you say, we're not stupid in the show. Sometimes I wonder about all of us, really, as an audience, because sometimes it's like people like, do you like her? I love her clothes. And that's all it is. You know, they're like, she just dresses so well. And I get that that's a part of it, but I'm like, but what are you going to. What's the dress going to do? Like, it's kind of like early season's Erika Jayne, where everybody was like, oh, my God, she's. Her taste is just so great, you know? But then that taste never really did anything. I mean, now it does because it really got dragged through them. She just got dragged through the mud face down, you know, so it's more fun now. But, yeah, I felt like that with Kana, but she is trying. Like, when she came up to me in this episode and she's like, listen here. You said that my boyfriend is a drug dealer. And he was like, no, I said your last boyfriend was a drug dealer. She's like, oh, don't do that. She's like, okay, sorry. It's like, no swing in a mess. I think the new cast is kind of showing promise, but they're also making me really appreciate the OGs, because they're still holding it down, you know, and they're still doing a great job, I think.

[Ben]

Kieran, what'd you say?

[Kempire]

Do you really think that?

[Ronnie]

I do. I think they're. I think their scenes are so funny and interesting. Like, Karen's scenes were even with. With her crying nephew, I was still like, I don't know. It was interesting. Ashley's stuff with her mom is a little bit old, but I think when the new girls are trying to start these fights and then the OGs come in and just slaughter each other with like, well, you're an opioid addict and, oh, really? Well, you had an abortion. When I'm like, oh, my God. And these are just like the casual conversations of the day, and one of them was from a husband, you know, but they just handle it so flawlessly that, you know, I think what new people, like, get a little more experience. It'll blend well.

[Kempire]

Yeah, I think. I think what happens is. Because one thing I think that I noticed this season with them is the fact that they. You can see the difference in the OGs versus the newbies, and you can kind of see the OG sort of watching the newbies and almost trying to produce. Self produce what's happening. Yeah, I definitely think Karen continuously brings it. No. You know, even if she's not showing accountability, she's very funny. Her confessionals are very funny. Giselle, very funny. But I can also see what they're trying to do this season with Giselle because the fans have really had a visceral reaction to Giselle over the last couple of seasons. So this season, they're really trying to paint Giselle in that. Oh, Giselle is sweet. She's making up with Wendy. Everything is good. And look, I'm open to it, but I want to see how long it lasts.

[Ronnie]

Mm.

[Ben]

Yeah. I mean, I think that. I mean, Giselle's very savvy, and I think that the dynamic between Giselle and Karen has to be protected at all costs. They are just the most amazing frenemies, the way they so politely or not so politely take swipes at each other. I mean, just this last episode, when they're sitting down at Ashley's, and Giselle is pretending to care for Karen by continuously mentioning, oh, you've got a court date coming up. Your court date's coming up. And Karen is like, oh, yes, yes, by the way. Oh, I heard that Jamal just got engaged. How are you doing? Are you okay? I. It is so fun. They. The way they go at each other is just so amazing. And, like, you just. They. They are so great. And that's where, to me, I really agree with Ronnie about, like, that the OGs bring it because they have a certain sort of chemistry, the kind of chemistry that the OG Roni women had, which is like, you know, years of just, like, taking these, like, attacks at each other, and they just get up and do it again and again and again, and that's, like, something you don't really. You don't really get to. Without being on a show with people for, like, many years in a row.

[Kempire]

That's true. They definitely have a chemistry.

[Ronnie]

Definitely.

[Kempire]

Giselle and in Karen have a chemistry that. That they know the fans want to see. So a lot of these scenes that we see with them are being orchestrated. They want. They want to give the fans what they. They love about. About the show. I just wonder how long that will actually last, because people are watching this for real things, not things that are sort of, like, put together where, like, yeah, the banter between Giselle and Karen can be cute, but is that going to be entertaining for years to come?

[Ronnie]

Oh, I think it's so much more entertaining when they're nice to each other because they're still so mean to each other, too. It's like they've just agreed, like, let's Just be polite with each other and agree that we kind of like each other in between the times that we're trying to ruin each other's life, you know? And it just cracks me up because it's such a Housewives trope that they really pull off so well. And Giselle is so entertaining without. I don't know what it is. I mean, I see. And they're doing it with Wendy, too, with, like, okay, Wendy, are you ready for another fun scene? It's fun Wendy. And she's like, hi, it's Wendy. I'm so fun. I'm like, wendy. And I think she's pulling it off really well. I really like this side of Wendy. But there is, you know, like, we have been watching this show for a long time. So when, you know, I'm kind of with you, where I'm waiting to see someone trigger the other side to come out, you know?

[Kempire]

Yeah. I mean, I have to give it to Wendy. She really stepped out during that Lake Norman trip when she was sort of holding people accountable for the hypocrisy. I was like, okay, Wendy, this is what I need from you. This is where I need to show up.

[Ronnie]

I think that's where she really excels, where she's just, like, judging everybody, but in, like, a really fun way. You know what? She's doing the great chorus thing for the rest of us, I think. And I really love her family dynamic. I think that's funny. Her mom's hilarious, like, demanding her allowance at the dinner they're paying for.

[Kempire]

Oh, my God. I don't need any family scenes without her mom being in them.

[Ben]

Oh, yeah.

[Ronnie]

It's so funny. Yeah.

[Ben]

Now, speaking of family scenes, what did you. What did you think about Mia and G and Ink at the end there? Because you know what? When I was watching the episode, I was just cracking up all the things that were talked about. I just kept on laughing and laughing and laughing. And I. I messaged. I don't know, what do we call on. On blue sky? What's not tweeting? What do you say when you're basically tweeting on blue sky? Whatever the verb is for blue sky. I blue sky it out.

[Ronnie]

And I was like, could you someone explain to me what. Why are you talking about it?

[Ben]

Blue sky is like. It's like this. It's like the emergent social network that people are going to because they're just sort of fed up with X and etc. So it's like blue because it's, like, liberal. Well, I think it's I don't know why it's called Blue sky, but I'm sure I. I'm sure it's more liberal than Telegram, for instance. But either way, the point is that I mess. I. I posted and I was like, this show is hilarious. God. Like, good God, Potomac is funny. And then that scene came on with G and Ink and Mia, and they're talking about, like, well, you broke up my family. She had an abortion because of you. And, like. And it happened twice. And I was like, oh, this got very serious very quickly.

[Kempire]

And the kids are right next door. They can hear them right there.

[Ronnie]

Well, they were. They were cracked out on Candy, thank God. Really was like, here's the drugs, kids. And they're. It was so funny watching kids react to Sugar like that. But, yeah, that. You know, those scenes are so. And then that. That whole, like, well, it's okay, fine. Then Gordon gets it. You know, gets it up to get her back, and he's like, well, she had an abortion because of you. And then both Mia and Ink were just like, meh, whatever, Gordon. Like, it didn't even. It wasn't even a blip on their radar. They were like, well, whatever, Gordon. Go take a nap. You know, Mia's like, you're crazy. Poor Gordon. You've been sick since I've known you with her gaslighting ass.

[Kempire]

Yeah. And she's definitely using him for her first storyline. That. And that's what Gordon was not trying to do in that moment, is give her a scene, especially because. What's his name? Apple box. What's his name?

[Ben]

I love the dj.

[Kempire]

Oh, I couldn't remember his name. All I can see. Applesauce or apple box.

[Ben]

He's incognito. Stands for incognito. That's why I wear sunglasses.

[Kempire]

So the fact that. That G was just like, I'm not going to. To give you this moment. I will film with you, but I'm not going to film with him. I was just like, okay, giving. Put your foot down.

[Ronnie]

Yeah, because Mia's the worst at that. Like, and Ashley does this a lot, too, with her mom or Michael, you know, where she's like, oh, we're just gonna have a nice little scene and we're gonna talk about ice cream. And then they come on. She's like, so what about you never having sex with me and possibly cheating with men? You know, it's like, whoa. You know, and I think that Mia does that with Gordon, too. Like, come on, honey. You know I still love you. We're just gonna Have a normal scene.

[Ben]

Haha.

[Ronnie]

It's ink. He's taking your children. What do you think about it? And he's like, God damn it, you've tricked me again, woman.

[Ben]

He does fall for it. I mean, Mia, here's the thing, like, here's where I also appreciate the OG is because Mia is very funny, but she is so clunky. Like, she is a clunky ass reality star. Like everything she does is like, is like second third generation reality star who's like, okay, I've studied how to do this on tv, I've watched my shows, I'm going to go do it. And you know, that's what, that's what all of Salt Lake City is too, by the way. So like, obviously it works. But like when you have these people who have been like raised on housewives who are now becoming housewives, you know, there's like a different, there's like a different approach to it that just doesn't have that same artistry as our, you know, Karen's and Giselle's and you know, you just go to other franchises and see it there.

[Kempire]

Yeah. I mean, I feel like with Mia, I don't know what it is. I mean, besides the fact that she lies all the time, like, it's hard to even determine what's real with her. And I think it's, it's funny on one sense, but on the other side it's sort of like, okay, what exactly is real with you then?

[Ronnie]

Nothing. No, well, literally nothing. I don't believe anything she says. Even when she was telling her, you know, like, look, normally there's like the victim cloak, right? When someone is talking. When someone throws on the victim cloak, they're talking about cancer, they're talking about drug addiction. Stuff that you cannot argue with somebody when they're talking about something like that. You can't say anything mean to them. And one of those things with Mia is like, well, I, I was addicted to opioids, so you're not supposed to. And that was a big blocker, right when Karen was like, well, she's addicted to opioids. And you're supposed to be like, well, I'm not going to make fun of me now. But then you see Mia's commercial where she's like doing a commercial. Like, I was addicted to opioids until I found chiropractic. It's like, girl, that is not how that works. What are you, what are you trying to pull, man?

[Ben]

I was like, wow, the power of the joint. Chiropractic.

[Ronnie]

So I don't think anything that Mia says is real, and I think it's kind of entertaining. But I see what you mean because it does cheapen it. And I think that's probably the biggest complaint with Mia is that she just kind of cheapens the whole brand. But, you know, I love some good boxed wine at a, At a fancy event, so.

[Kempire]

Oh, so she's the boxed wine. Okay.

[Ben]

But sometimes even the fancy wine is not great because, I mean, look at Roni. Roni. They're trying to bring in all the fanciest wine, and it's. It's rough, right?

[Ronnie]

Yeah. How are you feeling? How are you feeling about Roni?

[Kempire]

Reboot. The reboot.

[Ronnie]

Yeah, yeah, the reboot.

[Ben]

Reboot. The reboot.

[Kempire]

Oh, it's so bad. And I really try to give it a chance. I, I, I, I, I kind of enjoyed the first season, but I was giving them grace because it was their first season. But the second season is such a wash. Like, your entire season was based off of a prank.

[Ben]

Yeah.

[Kempire]

Andy cone is saying, oh, you know, I never like a prank. Andy, you can't say that you saw this before we did. You could have nicked this from the beginning. It didn't have to make it to the air.

[Ronnie]

So that was the worst. That was the worst sign was Andy finally saying one negative thing about the show and it wasn't that bad, but that he said anything, because that guy is like, normally, like, it's the best show ever created. I talked to Lucille Ball in heaven. She literally sent herself to hell in embarrassment for being on such a shit show compared to this one. You know, like, he's usually going on and on about how good everything is. And this one, he was like, that really sucked. And not only that, I'm gonna have Jeff Lewis on to completely drag you guys face first through the mud. So, you know.

[Ben]

Yeah, I think that, like, that prank. I think that prank was more detrimental than they ever could have imagined because I think they lost the audience. And this was like a jump. This is a true Jump the Shark moment for Bravo. I actually think it's like that big. I think we've seen pranks before. Some. A lot of people brought up Kathy Hilton drinking the martinis on Beverly Hills a few seasons ago, and we're like, oh, my gosh, she's pounding the martinis. But that was like a quick, like, 10 minute prank or a five minute prank. This was a prank that was a whole episode. But that trailers were built off, that they whipped up, try to whip up excitement for the show with this. And look, I hated last season, really, with a few, like, a few moments like, like, I still really enjoy Jessel. I think there were some good moments and the trip was fun and everything. And I actually came into this season more cautiously optimistic or trying to give it grace, be like, you know what? Sometimes they just needed one season under their belt. But I'm like, damn. Like, this is, this is. You're already doing like a bad season and you're going to like abuse the trust that the audience has with you. This is bad.

[Kempire]

And they're not done. It's a. To be continued.

[Ronnie]

To be continued.

[Ben]

On this prank.

[Ronnie]

God bless them.

[Ben]

We have to the resolution.

[Ronnie]

God bless them. Because I actually feel. It's to the point where I kind of feel bad for some of them because they're just so bad. It's like they're not even mean. You know, sometimes you watch these shows and they're just being torn apart by evil people. Like some people. I think these shows maybe turned the cast just so crazy that they just go down a super villain route and it just ruins it, you know, like Tamra from OC had that happen when she got fired the first time. She's flirting with that again. And, you know, we've seen it happen with so many cast members over the years and this one is not happening to them. It's just. They're just bad. They're just. God bless them. They're trying, but.

[Kempire]

And I don't know what they can do to. To fix it.

[Ronnie]

That's the. Just cut the cord. So some breakups are better to just say, I'm sorry, it's not me, it's you. Go get your and get out. Don't call me anymore. There's like a billion people in the world. You don't need this chubby, pasty older one. Go find a younger one to hate you. I'm too old to invest my time in this.

[Ben]

You know, this reminded me like, like I feel like in the old days of tv, of network tv, this was the sort of thing where they were just yank it, you know, because that's what used to happen. Shows just go away. If they're not doing well or not, they're gone. They don't finish their seasons. But we finish every single season of every Housewife show. I'm not saying they should do that, but I definitely had that feeling after watching that episode and seeing people's reactions, I was like, I am so surprised they didn' they're not just like pulling up from the Schedule because everything else is so good. On Bravo right now, you have this big stinking dud. I don't know. I mean, like, there are people who are talking about, like, should they bring back some OGs and mix them with the best of this cast? I actually would not mind that personally. Or do you think it should be that or just do a fresh new group of people?

[Kempire]

I definitely think they should bring back the OGs in some shape or form like they've been doing. I don't know if it should be for Real Housewives of New York just because they've done such a bad job with these last two seasons. And I don't want to see a mix of this new cast with the old cast, because this new cast, I think they're too self produced. They're beautiful women. It's a diverse cast, but it just wasn't landing. None of these people were really friends before this. At least the original, the originals, the OGs, they had connections. They knew of each other, really good friends. None of this cast knew each other.

[Ronnie]

So you could spot the OGs at each other's parties even before they were cast. You could spot in, like, maybe season two, I think was her earliest spot. And that's pretty cool. Yeah. I don't know. I don't need the OGs back. I think sometimes it's okay to just start anew. You know what I mean? Like, sometimes it's okay. There's plenty of crazy older ladies in New York. It doesn't have to be there. It's not only five, you know. Keep it moving. Did you see Bethany's video? Her most recent? I mean, she's got so much, so many cracked out videos. But the most recent one where she like, you know that show, she's like, those people suck. Suck. It's finally time to say it. That show sucks. Okay. And you know what? God bless Dorinda, God bless Sonia, God bless Ramona. They carried that show on their back. Yeah. After you left, like the day you were supposed to start filming and left them in the lurch and completely them over. I think Bethany is obviously angling for that show to be revived and her to come back. What do you think?

[Kempire]

I mean, she made a lot of money. She knows that she could potentially make a lot of money from coming back. I wouldn't be surprised. But is she wrong? It would be different if we were. We were watching the show. We're like, oh, we love the reboot, you know, but everyone hates to reboot.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. They're trying, you know, People are still trying to root for it, and it's so cute. I'm like, do you work for Bravo? I mean, just reading the threads, someone, you know, people will post every week. Like, I love Real Housewives in New York. Hiding my head. Anybody else? I'm like, no, there is nobody else. And you're gonna get. Yeah, you'll get like 10 people. Yeah. The Dubai thing, the Dubai one really did hurt because I really did like Dubai.

[Ben]

I thought season two was so much better. It, like, and I love it.

[Ronnie]

Okay, tell us what you think.

[Ben]

Yeah, tell us, Tell us.

[Kempire]

No, here's the case.

[Ben]

Safe space.

[Kempire]

I think Dubai had potential, but again, because this is years of fans watching the show, becoming housewives. They start self producing, and they start, you know, they go on their. Their media campaigns, and then they're. They're. I think the problem with Dubai is that things got really toxic behind the scenes, and I couldn't even see them filming a. A genuine, authentic Season three. So they should be happy that there isn't a season three. Plus, I think the main reason for putting it on pause, we know that just is lingo for canceled from Bravo, is the fact that it's. It's expensive to. To produce them, and it just wasn't worth it because they weren't bringing in the views that Bravo would want to go to Dubai and deal with, you know, the UAE government every time.

[Ben]

Yeah, Yeah, I think that, like, so for me, I actually really hated the first season of Dubai. I thought it was. It was such a snooze fest. I could not get into it. Despite everything and being. Coming into it as a huge Caroline Stanbury fan from Ladies of London. But I could not. I could not. And I was dreading when it came back. I was like, oh, my God, we have to recap this show. But then I actually wound up really loving season two, and I feel like, to me, Dubai did what Roni has not been able to do, which is that they sort of. They kind of saw like, ooh, I see where we are falling short as a show. We need to, like, sort of bring it up. We need to, like, we need to up our game. And I don't see New York doing that at all. I think they. I think New York thinks that they did a great job, and they're just like, we'll just do more of the same commercials.

[Ronnie]

Here comes one right now.

[Kempire]

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[Ronnie]

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[Kempire]

What were your favorite moments, though, from this last season of Dubai?

[Ronnie]

I really enjoyed Taleen. I thought she was very funny. I thought she came in and mixed it up right away. She wasn't afraid. And I think that's the kind of casting that saves. You know, it didn't save the show, but it kind of could have. Like when she had that one of our favorite running jokes wasn't even on the show, but it was when she, she went to a restaurant with her husband in Texas and was just so offended that she's in a place where they don't kiss your ass because you're rich. I mean, she was in like Houston where they're all rich and they don't care. You know, she can't push people around, but they didn't give her a table because her husband was on the phone yapping his head off and they had more than was allowed to sit at a table. And she was just like. And let me tell you something, and she was just going off on her TikTok. I mean, just the level of delusion I enjoyed. Caroline Brooks had a good second half of the season when she stopped with as much venom and she just was fun. She was a little more fun, which was nice. Caroline Stanbury had a more fun season. I mean, it wasn't great, but I think sometimes looking back on it, you're like, oh no. I mean, it wasn't one of the best. But I mean I still laughed. And really that's yeah, I think for.

[Ben]

Me, I thought it was like, it was fun. It was a fun show to have in the summer. Like, it was never boring for me. I enjoyed how all the fights were just kind of like silly, stupid fights. And no, this was coming off the Heels of Jersey. I just felt nice to just this shows, like, you know, it's fairly glamorous, but they're being petty. They're being really petty. And Caroline Stanberry in the first season was trying to get us to care about her relationship with Sergio, which, honestly, I. I can't stand him. But then this season, she's like, she spent most of the season just yelling at him and that was hilarious to me. Like the time when they were like trying to move and she's on the phone with the landlord and he's like, honey, honey, what do I put the socks. Honey, honey. She's like, I'm on the phone, Sergio. She just like shot up, like every time she yelled at him. I was happy. I'm like, the episode's good. I'm set.

[Ronnie]

So let's talk a little bit about what else is on right now. What are your thoughts of State of the Union of oc at least the State of the Union.

[Kempire]

I was like, what?

[Ronnie]

Yeah, yeah, America. No, we just pretend none of this.

[Kempire]

My thing is when you watch it, when you watch a perfect season, like our Orange county, all of these other shows pale in comparison. Dubai sucks. A Roni sucks when you watch such a perfect season. I literally started re watching the season from the beginning and I was like, this was a really good season, even down to the three part reunion. I know we haven't got to the third part, but I'm like, oh, wait, there's still more to talk about in the third part. They had a really, really good season.

[Ronnie]

Well, I can guarantee you one thing they're going to talk about that I'm a lawyer.

[Ben]

As an attorney, I can say that it's not appropriate to be texting people.

[Kempire]

I appreciated. I didn't appreciate all of Emily butting in, but I did appreciate some of the legal perspective that she was able to add to some of the conversations. So I did appreciate a little bit of that. But she doing a lot with no storyline. Yeah. Yes.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. So what about. I agree, by the way. I think it's been an ex. It gets a little toxic for me, that show because they just get so mean. I mean, they really get mean. Like that side of the couch that Emily, you know, I go off on it all the time on our show. I won't waste your time with it. But they just get so mean. I get infuriated, you know, but it's still so good. It really is a great show. What are your thoughts on slc? There are some people who feel like we love it. Because we consider it dinner theater, community theater. You know, they're making up their lines or forgetting their lines. Whitney can barely remember her lines. It's so funny. And it's like she's written them on the back of her hands. We love that show, but some people say it's just too self producing. That's personally why I think we like.

[Ben]

Yeah.

[Ronnie]

What are your thoughts on that one?

[Kempire]

I think both can be true. I think they're definitely. There is that inkling of self production that I. That I sense with Roni, with them, but I think they do it better. Yeah, it's a little bit more entertaining. I do think OGs are getting a little too alliance driven, too self aware. So I can definitely see them going in. In the next season or becoming insufferable in the next season. Because even Heather, who really should be a star of the show, is still writing the coattails of Elisa Barland. She's looking pitiful. People liked you in season one. Now you're just becoming a Lisa Barlow Stan on this show. And I don't like the alliances that I'm seeing, but. But it's definitely enjoyable. It's campy, it's funny at moments. The production value, the editing is superb.

[Ben]

Yeah, I feel like Heather being sidelined from this Palm Springs trip was. This was a reprimand from production. I think that probably they're picking up on the things that you're talking about, alliances, maybe all that stuff. I mean, she was. There was some new girl hazing at Bronman. Bronman, who got a profile in the New York Times today, by the way. But, yeah, my dad sent it to me. I was like, I love that this has wound up on your radar, dad. But. But yeah, I think, I mean, like. Because here's the thing, you know, Bronwyn didn't invite Heather on the trip. If production wanted Heather there, they would have found a way. They would have done a thing like surprise. Or like I invited Heather. Like they did that like last year with Palms. Palm Springs. Like that invited Angie to the. To the Palm Springs strip. They would have found a way. But I think. I think maybe production wanted to send a message. The OG is like, don't try to get all fancy. We control this shit.

[Kempire]

I believe that.

[Ronnie]

I can see that.

[Kempire]

I can definitely see that.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. They seem to be kind of putting Heather in her place and she's just spinning out of control. It's funny watching this Bronwyn come in and just take control. I mean, she's really running that show. At this point, I mean, she. On the after shows. All the clips that have come out of her on the after shows this week have just been her dragging Lisa. I mean, just dragging her for filth. And it's been really funny. You know, the woman has balls of steel and she does not give a fuck. And so that's pretty fun. I've. I've been. I've been enjoying that for the most part, but I still like the OGs. And I stand even with Heather, who I think is, you know, ridiculous, usually for at least 75% of the seasons. I think she's wrong. You know, I think she starts out with fun and good intentions, but she's always the mean one. She's always the. She never has loyalty at the end, and she's always kind of the one bungling everything. Like the whole black eye thing for years, a whole. Standing by Jen Shaw for years. She's just. There's something just so fishy about the chick. But, you know, she is kind of like the girl next door kind of of the show. And I still would stand up for her. You know, I don't like seeing somebody come in and be like, I'm controlling everything now. But I have to say, she's earning it, you know, and she's doing a great job of coming in and just like, taking the reins of the show.

[Kempire]

This what I appreciate from Heather is, is that she adds this perspective about Mormonism that a lot of people can't add on the cast and because they are in Salt Lake City. I appreciate those moments when she gives us different perspectives on. This is the mentality. This is why certain things work the way that they do. And I'm like, okay, I appreciate those moments, but I just don't. Yeah, like this. Like, you can tell she's forever wanting to be a part of the cool girl.

[Ronnie]

Clip Medium. If it was a movie, she'd be played by RIP Brittany Murphy. You know, it's just that kind of, like, character and clueless. It's just like, oh, my God, include me, include me. You know, she's just got that desperate kind of energy. And one thing to always remember about Heather, and I try to remember this when we're recapping it and I'm ready to just go in on Heather. It's not really that Heather left the Mormon Church, from what I remember, and I read her book and everything. Her first one is that she got kicked out of it. So there. There wasn't that whole, you know, in a lot of these storylines, like, with Whitney. Whitney. Well, Whitney, I guess got kicked out too. But it's kind of like this Mormon church. I'm standing up for myself and I'm doing what I want. Where Heather's more like. But they. But I'm outside, you know, and why do they suck? You know, she's kind of asking people around her, like, it's them, right? Is it them or me?

[Ben]

Is it them?

[Ronnie]

Me? Guys, like, will they let me back in? There's kind of that energy about her that I just find fascinating.

[Kempire]

Yeah, no, you. You bring up a valid point because you remember they. Was it last season or the previous season where Whitney was doing the whole, you know, officially, you know, disconnected from the church. She's like, you know, she doesn't seem like she wants to do anything like that. And she's still, I think because she, you know, grew up in it, that she might be a little, you know, brainwashed.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. I mean, are you excited for. I've just been watching Mormonism on TV for the past few years, but I'm like, I want in. They're all so cute and well groomed and like, I love the long underwear idea. It's like a spanking, you know, I'm like, I'm in, but I don't know. I'm easy like that. Sorry, Ben, go ahead.

[Ben]

I was just gonna ask, are you excited for Sold on slc? As long as we're talking about our.

[Kempire]

Mormon friends, I love anything when it comes to real estate. I just hope they do it well. Like Owning Manhattan on Netflix did a great job of giving us a real estate show that wasn't just focused on the interpersonal dramas of the agents. They just. They did a really great balance of doing that. I just hope this new show does the same because if it turns into, like another selling sunset, I'm like, ah, am I really good?

[Ben]

I think it will be. I mean, I think it will be a selling sunset. I think it's going to be. I think, yeah, because I think that, like, you know, I feel like Bravo kind of missed the boat with the selling sunset moment. Right. Because Bravo has, like, Million Dollar listing, which is a different vibe. That show has a different, like, energy and pacing. So I kind of feel like they kind of were like, okay, let's put that on pause a little bit and like, reset and join in, like the new style, or at this point it's like five years old of doing real estate shows. I personally can't wait. I think it looks so good. And I mean, I think that maybe it's just because like I'm just like bandwagoning this like Mormon moment in pop culture. But I, I think it's. It looks hilarious.

[Kempire]

I'm open to it. I, I remember they were considering the young woman, they were referring to her as Utah, Utah's homegirl. And she was being considered for Real Housewives of Salt Lake City. So I found money that she's going to be on this show. So it might work out better for her on this show that way. It's not all about her personal life. It's more about her work life.

[Ronnie]

Yeah. It just looks so cheesy. Like I can't wait. Like really self important sales people. I love it. You know, why do we not have a show taking place behind like a makeup counter at Saks, you know, those are some really self important. Like I need that in my life. I love delusional scandal too. Yes. So Teddy, let's talk about Teddy. Let's talk about, let's talk about a second.

[Kempire]

There was like, Teddy. Oh, Teddy.

[Ronnie]

It takes a moment, you know, but we have to think Teddy does. So. So do you think all this makes Teddy more interesting? So. No. Teddy cheated on her husband and I called it. Now she didn't do a gay storyline. I thought she was going to copy Kyle down to the gay storyline. But I did call her cheating on her husband because Kyle did it and she even did it with a cowboy, which I think is also very Kyle coded because Kyle went for that country star. And you got this one with the horse trainer, Teddy. Can you even fuck around on your husband originally? Like, seriously, you're going to cheat on your husband with a cowboy like Kyle? Get out of here. Teddy, what do you think? Is Teddy more interesting now?

[Kempire]

I think a lot of people's first reaction when they heard this cheating scandal of Teddy, you know, cheating with her married horse trainer, everyone was like, this is still not interesting enough for you guys to bring her back. Don't even think about it. And I agree with that. 1,000. It's not. I'll give you the story. Here's the update. We're wrapped for the season. We don't care.

[Ronnie]

Well, how come you have such a juice? She's cheating on a guy with the. The wife is in labor and Teddy's off the husband.

[Ben]

And then this is why I feel bad for her because this is on paper an excellent grade A scandal. This sort of scandal that doesn't exist outside of the movies. Like fucking your horse trainer who has a wife. Like this only happens in film noirs. It does not happen in real life life. This is like a such a top tier scandal and we're all going like, no one cares about her scandal. Like, wow. Like, that's, that's just sad. I feel bad. I feel bad that that's, that is the heft that you have is a giant shrug in the most like top tier scandal you could ever have.

[Ronnie]

Yeah, I think it's just even too gross. I mean, I think that like, it could have been fun. Like maybe if he was hot. Hot or because he's not even hot, bless his heart. You know, that's not nice to say. But I'm not saying he's fug or anything like that. I'm just saying he's not like panty dropping hot. And then the guy, you know, the wife was like giving birth or like pregnant with the baby and it's just, it's just gross, Teddy. It's just bad. It's just a bad luck. It's not even a fun affair. You know, you've even made cheating boring. And cheating is supposed to be fun. People cheat because it. You get filled with the adrenaline. You have taken away the adrenaline from cheating, Teddy. I don't even want to cheat on anybody anymore. Like, you ruined cheating for me. Teddy. Come on, man.

[Ben]

Wasn't Teddy one of the people leading the charge with Kyle against Brandy. I'm sorry. Against Denise Richards and Brandy Glandal, who. She certainly had a lot to say then about Denise potentially having an extramarital affair with Brandy. So she always has a lot turns around.

[Kempire]

She didn't have a lot to say. In our podcast when this scandal came out. She said a whole lot of nothing.

[Ronnie]

Yeah, she should have taken the Tamara route and been like, oh, I went to therapy that one time and I found out I'm artistic. I'm a painter, guys. Teddy's like, you read that wrong. It's autistic. Whatever. Feel bad for me, guys. Like, she didn't do that. So I'm waiting for her big. I'm waiting for her for the victim cloak to come out.

[Kempire]

Oh, Lord. But we won't care.

[Ronnie]

We won't care.

[Ben]

Yeah.

[Ronnie]

Someone in chat said, but you're talking about it. I mean, yeah, because you know, you have to complain to the. You have to complain to the writers when the storyline's not working. Of course we're talking about it. Please give us a better affair. Okay, that's my request.

[Ben]

Do you think this is going to get her any sort of on air work on Bravo or even on somewhere else? Do you Think this is going to lead to more reality.

[Kempire]

Way it will happen will be because of Kyle, because Kyle will have her. Like, oh, you know, you're going through things like I am. So that's probably the only way that we will get a glimmer of this story next season. Not this season. That's coming up. I don't care as much as I don't care about Kyle either. I'm tired of a trail of Kyle crying. No, I don't.

[Ronnie]

Thank you. You are preaching to the choir, and the choir loves the service. Okay, thank you.

[Ben]

Are you excited for Beverly Hills starting tomorrow?

[Kempire]

I'm on the fence. Like, I. I'm not excited, but I'm also not not excited. I want to see it because I think the trailer kind of threw me off because I'm so tired of Kyle. And like, yes, I get it. She's an OG and she's given us moments throughout the years, but I'm just. I. I don't want to hear her L Word storyline for this season.

[Ronnie]

I'm.

[Kempire]

I'm good on that. I don't want to see her girlfriend, Morgan. I don't want to see any of that. I'm excited to see everyone else.

[Ronnie]

But I hear I like Morgan a little because of her, like, kind of forced, gumpy way about her, how she. Hey, Kyle, you know, like, she's got that kind of personality. So I actually kind of am looking forward. And I also love that Kyle has this whole, like, I'm not a lesbian. How dare you? I would never do that to anybody, call anybody a thing. Let's make a music video where we're making out together and, like, fucking in the video. And then you can. You can release a song about doing coke off of my stomach in the Chateau Marmont while I'm cheating on my husband and then crying because he got him. And, you know, her other thing is, like, supposedly she left Mauricio because Mauricio because he was talking to girls on Instagram. That's what you were doing, Kyle. You found your girl on Instagram and you were DMing her little hooker. What's that?

[Kempire]

But he's been doing it for 20 years. Yeah, well, allegedly.

[Ronnie]

Allegedly, Yeah. I mean, who knows? But it's pretty funny that that's how she ends up cheating. You know, I mean, I. I do give Kyle the props because Kyle is my great frustration in Housewives. She's always made me the craziest. We made T shirts that said Goodbye, Kyle. The second that line was uttered, I was like, finally, someone said it, you know, but I have to give her props in the whole, like, cheating on your husband and then turning it around to be like, but he was getting messages on Instagram and the whole world was like, you go, girl. You know, including me. Even me. I was like, you go, you leave a stupid ass for that young chick. You go, kyle. So, you know, credit where. Credit where credits do. But you still suck, Kyle. And I cannot wait to rag on you this entire season. I'm so excited. Real.

[Kempire]

I don't want. You want to talk about. I was so last season because I thought they were going to make the entire season about Kyle and her divorce. I was so happy that after the edit, they really didn't focus too much on it. Yeah, I'm hoping that we don't focus too much on Kyle. I'm ready.

[Ben]

Well, it's gonna be about dorit is be Dorit and pk. They're gonna be a center stage. And it looks like we're having some dust ups between dorit and Kyle, but we know it's never going to be real. I feel like sometimes dorit and Kyle and Erica, they are aware that the audience, you know, calls fox force five and everything and like, you know, the reputation truth, rightfully so, is that they never hold each other accountable, but they go after everyone else. So now they do these performative fights where they pretend like they're angry or they'll. They'll be. They'll. They'll ask some hard hitting questions, quote unquote, and then they like patch up because it's fine, because they just know they had to go through the motions that were the audience has to come after them. So I don't have high hopes for all the Dorit and Kyle fighting, but I'm excited to see it because I always like when they fight with. With Kyle. And I'm hoping that, like, Sutton and Garcelle can finally truly rise up against Kyle because I sort of always flirt with it every season, but they never really come through the way I want them to come through, you know?

[Ronnie]

You know, I.

[Kempire]

The thing is, with the read last season, she really had some really great confessional moments sense. I'm not looking forward to Dorit's storyline because I feel like the truth has always lingered in. In the distance with her and they never talk about it. And I'm just like, so are we going to talk about this foreclosure in your home this season? Like, what are we going to talk about? We never do. And it's just like, then why is she here?

[Ronnie]

Yeah. I think she's just there to be dumb. Like, I think that the show just can't follow her too much. She's just kind of the bimbo character that it's like she puts on pretty clothes and then just lies a lot and says stupid things that people laugh at. But I don't think it can be really about her or Kyle, frankly. I don't think it can be too much about Kyle because she just doesn't offer a lot. She's like, I'm making salmon tonight. We know Kyle. You know, it's like her big like, I'm going to make salmon this season. That's what. But somehow it always kind of works for me that show. I don't know, there's. There are parts of it that just always kind of come to life for me. I'm not sure what it is, but I'm excited. And we've officially taken your hour, sir. Thank you so much for being with us. Join us next week every week at 5:30 Pacific Time and go find Kempire on YouTube at Kempire and the Kempire on Instagram and tick tock, kill it at your show this Wednesday night at the Bourbon Room. If you guys don't have tickets, where do you get tickets? Just online on your side or whatever.

[Kempire]

If you go to my Instagram, it's available in my bio.

[Ronnie]

Okay, cool. Thank you so much for being here. This was really, really great to meet you. You, you too.

[Ben]

Thanks for. Thanks for coming on. This was a thrill.

[Kempire]

Me too. And I can't wait for you guys to come on my channel.

[Ronnie]

Hell yes.

[Ben]

Yes.

[Ronnie]

Yes. Let's do it. It was great talking. You have a killer show this Wednesday and everybody out there, thank you so much for being with us. We'll talk to you next time. Bye.

[Ben]

Watch what crap INS would like to thank its premium sponsors. Ain't no thing like Allison King. It's always automatic Maddock with Ashley Otto.

[Ronnie]

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[Ronnie]

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[Ronnie]

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[Ronnie]

She ain't no shrinking violet Coutar we love you guys. If you like, watch what crappins. You can listen ad free right now by joining Wondery plus in the Wonder App or on Apple podcasts. Prime members can listen ad free on Amazon Music. Before you go, tell us about yourself by filling out a short [e-mail] I'm.

[Ben]

Lindsey Graham, host of Wondery show American Scandal. We bring to life some of the biggest controversies in US History. Presidential lies, environmental disasters, corporate fraud.

[Ronnie]

In our latest series, entrepreneur Lou Pearlman.

[Ben]

Becomes the mastermind behind two of the.

[Ronnie]

Biggest pop groups in the world, the Backstreet Boys and NSync. He also oversees a sprawling business empire.

[Ben]

That includes a charter jet company, restaurants and real estate. But Perlman's successful facade crumbles after he's sued by the boy bands for siphoning millions from them. And soon investigators discover that Perlman is keeping his empire afloat through an even more devious scheme. Follow American Scandal on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Ronnie]

Experience all episodes ad free and be.

[Ben]

The first to binge the newest seasons only on Wondery. You can join Wonderyplus in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial today. Have you ever wondered who created that bottle of Sriracha that's living in your fridge? Or why nearly every house in America has at least one game of Monopoly. Introducing the Best Idea Yet A brand new podcast about the surprising origin stories.

[Ronnie]

Of the products you're obsessed with.

[Ben]

Listen to the Best Idea yet on the Wonder app or wherever you get your podcasts.