RHONY Alums Luann de Lesseps, Ramona Singer Set for New E! Florida Series

Five stars from the early days of The Real Housewives of New York City—Countess Luann de Lesseps, Jill Zarin, Ramona Singer, Kelly Bensimon, and Sonja Morgan—are coming together for a new reality series on E!. The show, which has a working title of The Golden Life, will have 10 episodes and take place in Florida. E!, part of Versant, has given the green light to the project, marking a fresh start for these women who helped build the franchise years ago.

Background

These women were part of the first seasons of The Real Housewives of New York City when the show started in 2008. Luann de Lesseps, known as the Countess, brought her European flair and cabaret performances to the screen. Jill Zarin ran a successful clothing line and navigated family ties that kept viewers hooked. Ramona Singer stood out with her pinot grigio talks and bold personality that often sparked debates among friends. Kelly Bensimon added her model background and beach house gatherings, while Sonja Morgan offered glimpses into her socialite world with parties at her townhouse.

Over the years, they each left the show at different points. Jill exited after season four amid tensions with others. Luann took breaks but returned for specials. Ramona stayed the longest, through season 14, before the cast reboot. Kelly appeared in later seasons and Ultimate Girls Trip events. Sonja wrapped up her main run in season 11 but popped up now and then. Fans still talk about their fights, trips, and makeups, which defined the early vibe of luxury and drama in New York.

The group has crossed paths since leaving the main series. They joined Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip seasons, traveling to places like Turks and Caicos. Those trips brought back old stories and new clashes, reminding everyone why they clicked on screen. Now, with changes in the Bravo world—like new casts and spin-offs—these originals are heading to E! for their own platform.

Florida makes sense as a setting. Some of these women already spend time there. Sonja Morgan has spoken about her moves and life changes, including time in the Sunshine State. The state offers beaches, golf courses, and a social scene full of retirees and part-time residents. It fits the theme of golden years, friends reconnecting, and daily adventures away from New York winters.

Key Details

The series will follow the five women as they settle into Florida life. Cameras will capture their days at poolsides, dinners out, and shopping trips. Expect talks about past seasons, current businesses, and family updates. Luann might perform at local spots. Jill could host events tied to her brands. Ramona's energy will likely drive group outings. Kelly's fitness routine and Sonja's hosting skills will fill the episodes.

Cast and Production

All five are confirmed leads: Luann de Lesseps, Jill Zarin, Ramona Singer, Kelly Bensimon, and Sonja Morgan. No other names have surfaced yet. Production starts soon, with episodes airing later this year on E!. The working title The Golden Life points to themes of later-life fun, wealth, and bonds tested by time.

Each brings unique stories. Luann has her cabaret tour and Countess title from her marriage. Jill lost her husband Bobby in 2018 and has leaned into philanthropy. Ramona runs her skincare line and deals with legal matters from recent years. Kelly writes books and models still. Sonja manages her townhouse rentals and social calendar.

"We're excited to see these icons back together in a new light, sharing laughs and real moments in Florida," said an E! spokesperson.

Filming takes place mostly in South Florida areas like Palm Beach or Miami suburbs, where many wealthy New Yorkers own homes. The 10 episodes allow time for full arcs, from arrivals to a group finale event.

What This Means

This move shows how reality TV stars from one network can find new homes elsewhere. E! gains star power from Bravo veterans without competing directly. Fans get more of these women, who have loyal followings from social media and appearances. It could lead to crossovers or more legacy shows.

For the women, it's a chance to control their story. No longer tied to New York drama, they shape the narrative around friendship and fresh starts. Florida's setting opens doors to local events, charity galas, and boat days that fit their lifestyles.

Bravo's Real Housewives keeps growing with Ultimate Girls Trip road trips and new casts, but this E! series carves a separate path. It highlights the lasting draw of original stars. Viewers who miss the old RHONY dynamic now have a weekly fix. Networks see value in reuniting groups that proved successful before.

The project taps into a trend of location-based reality shows. Think Southern Charm in Charleston or Below Deck on yachts. Florida's mix of glamour and relaxation provides endless backdrops. These women know how to work cameras after years in the game.

Success here might spark similar reunions. Other franchises have legacy alums ready for screens. E! could expand the format or invite guests. For now, it keeps these five relevant, blending nostalgia with new chapters.

Their return also reflects personal shifts. Many have grown families, businesses, and perspectives since early days. Episodes will likely touch on divorces, losses, and wins. Group dynamics—friendships and rivalries—remain the core draw. Ramona and Jill's past tensions could resurface. Luann's poise might mediate. Kelly and Sonja add fun layers.

Viewers tune in for authenticity. These women built careers on being real amid fake outs. Florida offers a reset, but their spark stays the same. The series arrives at a time when reality TV craves familiar faces amid fresh competition from Netflix and others.