Bethenny Frankel asks why exploited reality TV stars aren't on social media strike

July 20, 2023 7:29 p.m.

Bethenny Frankel is enraged and takes aim at the injustices she believes are being perpetrated against reality TV stars.

In a video uploaded to her TikTok and Instagram on Thursday, Frankel, 52, alum of the reality show "Real Housewives of New York," claimed that reality stars should receive residuals like other actors.

"Reality stars are stepchildren, losers, mules, pack horses." The ones the entertainment industry is going to rely on, right now, to haul the water and do the heavy lifting when real stars, real top Hollywood are on strike,” she said.

Frankel doesn't need the money. She is now CEO of Skinny Girl, whose liquor division she sold for $100 million while retaining the rights to use the name for other products. She is also a best-selling author and producer.

But she is troubled by the disposable character of her fellow reality stars.

In one example, Frankel said the affair of "Vanderpump Rules" star Raquel Leviss had "pretty much ruined" her life.

"And at what price?"

She added: "Reality TV exploits business, bankruptcy, falling off the wagon, not really having what you say you have, something inappropriate, risking cancellation every time the camera comes on."

Frankel said she recognizes how a "doe-eyed young reality star", who wants fame at all costs, "doesn't know what she's signing" and "can't afford a good lawyer".

” So just because Hollywood and the entertainment industry can harness this green talent, does that mean they should? Contracts are designed to protect talent. Not for a moment."

Frankel claimed to have received compensation of $7,250 for his first season of his Bravo series.

"Why isn't reality TV on strike?" said Frankel. "I got paid $7,250 for my first season of reality TV and people still watch those episodes."

JavaScript is required to load comments.

Loading comments...