Season 17 of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” is a hit with viewers so far. Among the cast is Phaedra Parks, who is back on the show for her second season after a lengthy hiatus. Recently, she gave an update on her friendship with RHOA legend NeNe Leakes after filming “Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th.”
In addition to Parks, RHOA season 17 stars Porsha Williams, Drew Sidora, Angela Oakley, Kelli Ferrell, Shamea Morton, K. Michelle, and Pinky Cole. Cynthia Bailey appears as a friend of the show.
Phaedra Parks Says She’s ‘Great Friends’ With NeNe Leakes
GettyParks interviewed with Decider in April 2026 to promote season 17 of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta.” During the discussion, the host mentioned how Parks had seen and filmed with Leakes for the upcoming “RHUG: Roaring 20th” limited series. Notably, this comes after the RHOA icon has been absent from Bravo since 2020.
Parks noted, “I see Nene all the time. We’re good friends.” Specifically, when asked about filming with her, the 52-year-old mom of two said, “I’ve known NeNe most of my life, and so she’s a good time, she’s brilliant, she’s great TV, so it’s always a good time with NeNe.”
She added, “I’m excited for her.” After that, Parks gave an update on her status with the “Married to Medicine” cast following her abrupt exit. When asked who she remains in contact with, she stated that she and Toya Bush-Harris are close, and that their kids attend the same private school.
Parks called Bush-Harris “school bae,” saying, “I talk to her all the time.”
Both RHOA Stars Recently Went to The Capitol
GettyAs Parks mentioned in her Decider interview, she and Leakes have remained in contact years after last appearing on RHOA together. This includes being seen together at various events, and both recently being among the “Housewives” stars to advocate for HIV prevention at the US Capitol.
Parks posted a series of photos of the occasion on Instagram and included a sincere caption. The RHOA star wrote, “These high heels walked through Capitol Hill for a different fight. A fight for voices that too often go ignored. Thank you @tschukraft and @heymistr for allowing me to advocate for access to PrEP & HIV prevention for communities that need them most.”
In addition to Parks and Leakes, “Housewives” star Melissa Gorga, Erika Jayne, Luann de Lesseps, Marysol Patton, and Candiace Dillard-Bassett attended.
“The Real Housewives of Atlanta” airs on Bravo on Sunday nights. New episodes are available on Peacock the following day.
