E!'s Official Ranking of Every Real Housewife Ever Is Diamond-Worthy

Vicki Gunvalson Gives Engagement, Marriage Update With Michael Smith

Two decades ago, five wealthy women living in Southern California jumped at the chance to have their lavish lifestyles filmed and shared with the world.

And it’s safe to say the juice has been worth the squeeze. At least for the series’ dedicated viewers.

It's hard to believe, but in the 20 years since Bravo released season one of The Real Housewives of Orange County in 2006, nearly 180 ladies have held the coveted title of Real Housewife, grabbing hold of their oranges, apples, peaches and diamonds (yes, we feel old as hell).

From table flipping in New Jersey to dinner parties from hell in Beverly Hills, the Real Housewives franchise has kept fans across the globe endlessly entertained with iconic quotes (Sherée Whitfield's effortless, "Who 'gon check me, boo?"), meme-able moments (keeping it cool, not, like, uncool with The Countess) and enough drama to nearly sink a yacht in Cuba (sorry RHONY gals, we had too).

But let us not forget, Bravoholics, that the O.C. Housewives walked so those from Potomac, Miami and so many other cities could run—wearing designer stilettos no less—into the annals of television history

Reflecting on the reality shows' massive success all these years later, co-creator Andy Cohen still can't believe that the legacy started by RHOC's Vicki Gunvalson, Kimberly Bryant, Jo De La Rosa, Jeana Keough and Lauri Peterson has not only endured, but permeated nearly every corner of pop culture.

"It used to be that women on TV who were over 50 were The Golden Girls," the series' executive producer told fans at BravoCon 2025 this past November, "and now they are our thriving and beautiful and sexy and incredible, dynamic women."

And in between all the yelling, shade and glassware throwing, Real Housewives has given us a new appreciation for the women in our lives who are glamorous, unapologetic and never afraid to live out loud.

Matthias Clamer/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images

"I think I've learned a lot from the Housewives," the father to son Benjamin, 7, and daughter Lucy, 3, admitted during the weekend-long bash in Las Vegas. "I think I've learned the power of forgiveness. I've learned about people wanting to be heard, people wanting to be acknowledged, people wanting to be seen. I think that, as I look back on a lot of the women now that I'm a dad, I've looked at them and how they put everything into being parents. I view the Housewives as a great feminist show, to be honest. You're seeing women take control."

Koury Angelo/Bravo

In honor of The Real Housewives of Orange County's milestone 20th season—which premieres July 9 at 8 p.m. on Bravo—E! is looking back at all 170-plus Bravo stars who have held the title of Real Housewife—for better or for worse.

And, yes, E!'s official ranking of every Housewife ever comes with receipts, proof, timeline and screenshots. So, before you disagree with us, remember that's our opinion!

(Originally published Feb. 17, 2025 at 4 p.m. PT)

Check out Peacock to binge your favorite NBCU TV shows and movies, live sports and more!