AceShowbiz - Andy Cohen is sharing crucial advice for the newest stars of The Real Housewives franchise as they embark on their reality TV journeys. On the March 2 episode of Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen, the franchise's executive producer addressed a common challenge many Housewives face after filming concludes: reigniting cast conflicts upon watching the episodes back.

During the segment, Cohen cautioned the cast of The Real Housewives of Rhode Island to maintain the peace they have established off-camera rather than allowing past tensions to resurface. "As this season plays out, you're going to hear a lot in confessionals from the other women. Try to stay in the place you are right now with each other," he encouraged the women.

He acknowledged that many veteran Housewives struggle with this dynamic, emphasizing the difficulty of staying present in their relationships amid the pressures of the show. Cohen advised, "This is the thing that a lot of veteran Housewives still have a really hard time with. This is a really hard thing. Just try to stay in the moment we're in, in April of 2026." He further suggested that the cast keep track of unresolved issues to discuss later at the reunion, saying, "But keep a list, and we'll hash it out at the reunion."

The advice was directed to the new cast members Alicia Carmody, Rosie DiMare, Ashley Iaconetti, Liz McGraw, Rulla Nehme Pontarelli, Kelsey Swanson, and Jo-Ellen Tiberi. Additionally, Dolores Catania of The Real Housewives of New Jersey appears in this season as a "friend" of the women.

Cohen also warned the cast about the pitfalls of social media, reminding them that online reactions often distort reality. "Don't believe the comments. Social media is not reality," he said. "It's never as great or as bad as it feels like online."

Encouraging the women to embrace their authentic selves, Cohen reminded them, "Next, we love you for exactly who you are and how you are. Don't change. We cast you all for a reason. Don't change. Stay yourselves." He reinforced their unique position within the franchise, stating, "And don't forget, as a Real Housewife, you are part of a chosen few. Enjoy this ride. There are only just under 200 Real Housewives that have ever existed. You're all famous around the world. You have been chosen. Enjoy this."

Closing with a lighthearted note, Cohen advised, "Maybe don't start a podcast," hinting at the potential complications that can arise from branching out too quickly in the public eye.

The premiere of The Real Housewives of Rhode Island aired on Bravo on a Thursday night, introducing viewers to the cast as they navigate the complexities of their personal and public lives.

Cast members have expressed gratitude toward Dolores Catania, who has played a supportive role in helping the newcomers adjust to the demands of reality television. Newcomer Jo-Ellen Tiberi described Dolores as "like a mama bear," sharing, "Truthfully, anything that we needed - even to this day - she will help."

Jo-Ellen added, "She was just so kind and smart and caring. So it really was nice. It was a little cheat sheet to help us along the way."

Similarly, fellow new cast member Rulla Nehme Pontarelli praised Dolores's presence on the show, stating, "When Dolores and I first met, we completely hit it off. We saw eye to eye. I felt her genuine vibe. I love Dolores. I really do. I feel as though she's brought a lot to the table. She's been very candid. She's been very genuine, speaking from experience."

New episodes of The Real Housewives of Rhode Island are scheduled to air Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on Bravo and will be available for streaming the following day on Peacock, allowing fans to follow the drama and camaraderie as it unfolds.