Real Housewives of New York Cityaudiences aren’t the only ones shocked to learn thatBethenny Frankelisn’t returning for season 12 — her castmates are too.
“Bethenny found love in her life, and it’s so fantastic that she’ll be taking the time to grow that relationship away from the cameras and to explore other business opportunities,” said Singer, 62, noting Frankel’s relationship with boyfriend Paul Bernon.
Still, Singer admitted, “I’m only disappointed that Bethenny did not inform her costars that she’s not coming back to the show.”
“When she left in season 4, we found out through the press she was doing her spinoff,Bethenny Getting Married. She was upset we never congratulated her, but we were upset she never told us! And that’s how we feel now. There is a camaraderie among us as a cast. Love us, hate us, not like us — we are a team. To hear this from the press and not through her is upsetting,” she explained.
Singer added, “I really wish her well, though. The show’s a machine and it will continue on. We’re all just a cog in the wheel. No one is irreplaceable.”
Ramona Singer and Bethenny Frankel.Michael Stewart/Getty
The mother of one joined the Bravo reality series in season 1, but exited during season 3. Frankel later rejoined during season 7 and has starred on the show since.
“I have decided to leave theHousewivesfranchise to explore my next chapter,” Frankel said.
“It’s time to move on and focus on my daughter, my philanthropy and my production partnership with Mark Burnett, producing and starring in shows which represent a shift in the conversation for women,” said Frankel, who is mom to 9-year-old daughter Bryn, whom she shares with ex Jason Hoppy.
“With the changes in modern culture, I want to highlight the strength, confidence and unstoppable power that women have. My experience at Bravo has been an incredibly magical ride,” she continued. “I am so grateful to them for highlighting my entrepreneurialism and allowing me to pave the way for many women to achieve their goals. I am excited for my future. The best is yet to come.”
Bravo did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
Charles Sykes/Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty
She later spoke out in a lengthy “personal note” to her followers on Instagram.
“I am so grateful to you for sticking with me through everything. You started this journey with me in my tiny apartment in my late 30s, wondering what would happen to me. I was broke, single, had no family and no idea what the future held,” she began. “I had big dreams and I never stopped, but I honestly didn’t know if I would ever get here.”
After thanking fans for their “love and support,” she told her followers to “stay tuned, you haven’t seen the last of me. There are many amazing things to come.”
She concluded: “I love you all and am so lucky to have you in my life! PS: New York City is still my playground..♥️xo♥️.B.”
Season 12 ofThe Real Housewives of New York Cityis expected to premiere next year.
source: people.com
