Shortly after filming wrapped on season 14 of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” Garcelle Beauvais, who made history as the first Black cast member of “RHOBH,” was outta there. During part three of the reunion, which aired this past April, Garcelle refused to take part in the traditional cast photo and then exited the set in a cloud of frustration.
She later shared news of her departure in an Instagram video to fans, explaining that her time on the show had been a “wild ride.” And while she stressed that she was leaving to spend more time with her sons, Jax and Jaid Nilon, as well as focus on some exciting creative projects, her palpable irritation at the reunion certainly prompted fans to question if that was the full story.
Which is why it was such a surprise when she announced on “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen” on October 23 that while her friendship with Sutton Stracke is over, she isn’t ruling out one with Kyle Richards.
Garcelle & Kyle: Their History
GettyDuring her time on the show, Garcelle and Kyle had a relationship that can best be classified as “civil.” They were never tight, opting instead for an acquaintance-level coexistence. Around the time of her exit, in season 14, Garcelle’s bandwidth for Kyle reached its limit as her straight-shooting delivery often put her at odds with Kyle’s desire for privacy, especially around her private life.
And the coldness went both ways. In the wake of Garcelle’s departure, Kyle told E! News, “It’s unfortunate she left, but I do wish her the best.” While this statement was perfectly kind and professional, Kyle also mentioned in the same interview, “I haven’t heard from her. I texted her twice and haven’t heard back.” As of July this year, per Kyle’s Amazon Live, they still hadn’t spoken. Which makes Garcelle’s assertion on her “WWHL” appearance that much more intriguing.
What’s Next?
GettyGarcelle and Kyle are two women who carry themselves with grace, class, and a healthy dose of discretion, so it makes perfect sense that they understand one another. They’re both Hollywood veterans: Garcelle appeared in “Coming to America” before major roles on “The Jamie Foxx Show” and “NYPD Blue,” and Kyle started out as a child actor with notable roles in the “Halloween” franchise before executive producing the sitcom “American Woman” inspired by her upbringing.
Today, both women stay busy with film and TV projects, and as they navigate the industry as true stalwarts, it’s reasonable that they’d look to one another for camaraderie and sisterhood. And if we’re lucky, someday maybe even a collaboration.
