It has been a long few months that we have been without The Real Housewives of Atlanta. After a somewhat disastrous last season, I was unsure of what to expect for season 14. The return of RHOA brought a freshness that has not be seen within the franchise in a long time.
The premiere episode of RHOA begins on the tail of Kenya’s dancing with the star rehearsal with a group meetup being Kandi, Marlo, and Sheree. This group meeting truly felt authentic and genuine. The ladies were able to throw their shade without being malicious or trying to hit below the belt. They spoke about their love life with their respective partners – Kandi talking about Todd, Sheree talking about Tyrone, and Marlo reminded us that she dated a billionaire. It was also one of only a few times that Kenya was not feeding into her villainess role.
Marlo Deserved That Peach
I personally believe that Marlo should have gotten a peach a long time ago. She has been so influential in much of the franchise’s success. I also think she should have been holding a peach right alongside of Nene (who I also wish was still a part of the show, but those dreams are long gone). As a viewer, we have always wondered how she got her money and how she maintains such a lavish lifestyle. I hope that as the season progresses, we get more insight her finances. In this premiere episode we got a first look at her Le’Archive business, but I was left with many of the same questions as the attendees of “How do you get these pieces?” She allegedly had the iconic Versace dress that JLo wore and I would like to know HOW?! Most importantly, we got to see Marlo being a Munty, where she is now caring for her nephews. Seeing her relationship with her nephews definitely humanizes Marlo. We know she has a slew of mugshots, we know she can through shade, we know she can dress but now we can see beyond the glam.
The Breakout Rookie
I absolutely love Sanya Richards Ross. Many years ago, she had her own reality show that showcased her family and I was obsessed. I am so glad that she is back on our screen because she really meshes well with the group (so far). I was very apprehensive about her joining the franchise initially because I did not want to see my girl arguing back and forth on TV, but I know being Jamaican she would be able to hold her own. Not to mention, she has a beautiful family and her husband is fine as hell. In this premiere episode, Sanya gels so well. I am excited to see how her relationship with the other RHOA cast mates progress across the season.
Drew, STAND UP!
I have finally realized that Drew and Ralph are destined for each other because they both are liars. Ralph has been lying since he first came on camera. Last season, Ralph ran away to Tampa for a few days without telling his wife. This season, Ralph has hired an “assistant” that is offering up massages. Two seasons of cheating allegations cannot be beat. Any man tell me that he will pick his dreams over me clearly does not want to be with me. Also, I would like to see some real reviews of the “Dropping It WIth Drew” weight loss program because I am not certain that it’s goals and result align. I foresee that Drew will probably morph into the show villain. All of it is sketchy but if they like it, I love it.
Sidenote: The last time I traveled to Atlanta, I had met Drew’s “assistant” that had his moment on the show with Ms. Burress. We met randomly in the valet of the hotel that we were staying at. We’ve been IG friends ever since. I hope he is getting a bag!
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A Fresh RHOA Restart
The true breakout star of the show is the editing team. I think there has been a change in either the editing team or the production because the edits were magnificent. It was hilarious to hear “Bye Ashy” when Kenya said her feet were ashy. The subtle changes of sounds were chef kiss. Even the flashback to the iconic white refrigerator comment was so great to watch on screen.
There is a restored faith in the franchise after seeing the first episode. Although Atlanta has not been bad, the last few seasons have not been up to par for the franchise. I was waiting to see the first episode to determine whether or not I should do weekly reviews of this season. I’ve decided I am.