Bravo has announced a new spinoff series titled The Real Housewives: Ultimate Road Trip, set to premiere in 2026. This initiative comes as part of the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Real Housewives franchise, which has become a cultural touchstone in reality television. The announcement was made by Andy Cohen during the “Ask Andy” panel at BravoCon 2025.
The new series will feature a group of beloved former Housewives as they embark on a cross-country journey, visiting significant locations featured in the franchise’s history. While details about the cast have not yet been finalized, the trip will commence in Orange County, California, the birthplace of the franchise, and will conclude on the East Coast. The specific route and stops along the way are expected to highlight memorable moments from past seasons, adding nostalgia for long-time fans.
In a statement released on November 16, Frances Berwick, Chairman of Bravo and Peacock Unscripted, emphasized the significance of the series. “For two decades, The Real Housewives has amplified women’s voices, spotlighted their ambition, humor, and strength, inspiring millions with their unapologetic authenticity,” Berwick stated. “The Real Housewives: Ultimate Road Trip is a love letter to the women who turned a reality television show into a cultural phenomenon — and the fans who’ve been there for every laugh, gasp, toast, and table turn.”
The announcement of this series follows the success of previous spinoffs, including The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip, which premiered in November 2021. The inaugural season featured stars such as Cynthia Bailey and Teresa Giudice, vacationing in Turks and Caicos. Subsequent seasons have continued the trend of reuniting former Housewives, including a season that showcased former cast members at Dorinda Medley’s Blue Stone Manor in Massachusetts and another that took place in Thailand.
The franchise has not been without controversy. A lawsuit filed by Caroline Manzo in January 2024 accused Bravo and its production teams of encouraging dangerous behavior among cast members, including excessive alcohol consumption. Manzo alleged that this led to inappropriate interactions during filming, particularly involving Brandi Glanville. Glanville’s legal team has vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that the accusations are false and have adversely affected her mental and physical health.
Further complicating matters, Lisa Shannon, a producer for Ultimate Girls Trip, responded to Manzo’s claims in April 2024, stating that Manzo had indicated she did not feel sexually violated, but rather disrespected. Shannon emphasized the producers’ concern for Manzo’s safety and her desire to continue filming.
While details regarding the future of The Real Housewives of New York City were not disclosed at BravoCon 2025, Cohen hinted that updates about the franchise are forthcoming. The excitement surrounding the announcement of The Real Housewives: Ultimate Road Trip signals a continued commitment to engaging audiences with fresh content and beloved characters from the series.
