Kyle Richards never expected to become the longest-serving 'Real Housewives' cast member

NEW YORK Kyle Richards is marking a major milestone in her reality TV career. After 15 consecutive years on Bravo's "Real Housewives" franchise, she has earned the distinction of being the longest-serving cast member in the show's history. When "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" premiered in 2010, Richards did not anticipate such longevity, nor did she imagine the journey her role would take.

"I never imagined Id still be here 15 years later," Richards shared. "If Im going to hold a title, thats a pretty good one."

Following Thanksgiving celebrations with her four daughters and ex-husband Mauricio Umansky, from whom she has been separated for two years, Richards spoke openly about the evolution of the show, her experiences with fame, family dynamics, and personal relationships.

Wearing a leather blazer minidress, Richards described her ongoing journey with the series. "Ive thought about quitting so many times," she admitted. "Now I just go with the flow and see where it leads."

Initially, Richards, a former child actress, assumed her participation would simply document her life as a mother. "I figured it wouldnt be too challenging," she said. "I watched other shows to understand what I was signing up for, but I thought, 'Thats them. I wont be arguing with anyone.'

As Season 15 begins, Richards brings seasoned experience to the screen alongside fellow veterans Erika Jayne, Dorit Kemsley, and Sutton Stracke, new cast members Rachel Zoe and Amanda Frances, and last season's addition Bozoma Saint John. With the introduction of a celebrity stylist, the cast continues to raise the bar for fashion and style. Richards reflected on her early days: "I wasnt thinking about fashion in Season 1. I did my own hair and makeup with a plastic clip in my hair. But eventually, fans noticed, and that led to my clothing line and other ventures."

Though often understated compared to some of her co-stars, Richards collection of Herms bags rivals boutique inventories. She notes that some of the shows ensembles feel more like costumes than clothing, which doesnt align with her personal style.

Richards recalls the early seasons as an intense learning curve for the cast. "During Season 1, we were all figuring it out together. When things got really intense, it was overwhelming," she said.

The original cast faced both glamour and turmoil, with dramatic moments including publicized family disputes. "The arguments with my sisters over 15 years have been some of the toughest moments," Richards said, emphasizing that today they are in a better place.

The star attributes her continued participation to the joy she finds on the show. "We had a lot of fun, even if the drama sometimes overshadowed it," she noted.

While some trips and events became infamous for conflicts, Richards highlights the lasting enjoyment of international locations like the Hamptons, Italy, and Arizona. Despite tensions with co-star Dorit Kemsley, she believes there is always room for reconciliation. "Theres always a way back. Its a matter of timing," she said.

Richards balances the glitz of the show with her family life. Her amicable relationship with Umansky remains a priority. "We respect each other and do well with co-parenting. The topic of divorce hasnt come up at all," she explained.

She admitted that stepping away from filming was difficult, fearing the changes it would bring after 15 years on the show. "This show has been a huge part of my life. Leaving would have been another major loss," she said.

Her daughtersFarrah, Alexia, Sophia, and Portiahelp keep her grounded, sharing home activities and game nights. Meanwhile, Richards continues to pursue acting projects, including "The Lincoln Lawyer" and new television dramas she has sold to major networks.

"Being at home with my daughters, watching shows together, or playing games has been wonderful," she said, noting that her children even play "Real Housewives" marathons for their cats. "Seeing these moments documented has been amazing," she added.

Author: Gavin Porter