Season 17 of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” premieres on Bravo on April 5. Recently, while discussing the show, RHOA fan-favorite Phaedra Parks gave her opinion on Porsha Williams’ new girlfriend, Patrice ‘Sway’ McKinney. Plus, she says this new season reminds her of “Housewives” at its best.
In additon to Parks and Williams, RHOA season 17 will feature returning stars Drew Sidora, Angela Oakley, Shamea Morton, and Kelli Ferrell. The new housewives are singer K. Michelle and restaurateur Pinky Cole. Cynthia Bailey will also appear as an official friend of the show.
Phaedra Parks Says Porsha Williams’ Girlfriend Is ‘Perfect’
GettyParks appeared on Page Six Radio on March 24 to discuss RHOA season 17. While on the topic of Williams’ relationship with McKinney came up. She said of their bond, “She’s so happy, and Sway is just perfect. Sway just adores her.”
When asked why her RHOA co-star had such a connection with McKinney, Parks responded, “Well, I think they complement each other. They’re both attractive people, and so that makes it easier.” Regarding their personalities, she called McKinney “super smart” and said that Williams “loves to be adored and she adores her.”
She added, “So that’s the perfect match for Porsha. Someone that’s going to treat her like she wants to be treated, and Sway is gonna do that, every time.”
According to Bravo, Williams first confirmed in October 2025 that she was, at the time, dating a man and a woman. However, fast-forward to November 2025, and she hard-launched her relationship with McKinney with an Instagram post, featuring them posing in front of a Christmas tree.
She said in the caption, “Happiest Birthday @sway_thepro, Hope this year continues to bring you everything you want and more! Can’t wait to act up Saturday!”
See the ‘RHOA’ Season 17 Trailer
Bravo released the official trailer for season 17 of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” in February 2026. The clip opens with a doll-themed introduction, featuring a voice-over from Sidora. She says in the trailer, “Once upon a time in Atlanta, there lived a group of beautiful dolls who really tried to be good. Like, really tried.”
After that, the trailer teases the changing dynamics between the ladies, including Williams and Ferrell having rather intense conversations. Additionally, the RHOA trailer introduces fans to Michelle and Cole, both new to the season but with reputations that have generated significant interest.
Regarding the reason, Parks told Page Six that this would be “an iconic” season and reminded her of “classic ‘Housewives’ from back in the day.”
“The Real Housewives of Atlanta” premieres on Bravo on April 5.
