Andy Cohen, the popular television host and producer known for his work on the “Real Housewives” franchise, is facing a lawsuit from former “Real Housewives of New York” star Leah McSweeney. In the legal documents filed on Tuesday, Leah alleges that Cohen, along with producers, Bravo, NBC Universal Media, and others, created a toxic work environment that exploited her mental health and alcohol use disorder for the sake of drama.
Leah claims that during her time on the show, she was pressured to consume alcohol despite her struggles with addiction. She points to a text message from her “Ultimate Girls Trip” co-star Marysol Patton that said, “I wish you were still drinking,” which Leah interpreted as a reference to her newfound sobriety. Additionally, Leah alleges that Cohen uses cocaine with other Housewives and Bravo stars and rewards those who participate in drug use with favorable TV edits.
A representative for Andy Cohen has vehemently denied the claims, stating that they are completely false. Leah is seeking unspecified damages in her lawsuit, alleging discrimination based on her alcohol problem and other issues, as well as a failure to make accommodations during her time on the shows.
This lawsuit comes on the heels of other controversy surrounding Andy Cohen, as he has recently been accused of sexually harassing former “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” and “Ultimate Girls Trip” star Brandi Glanville. Last week, Brandi’s lawyers sent a letter to NBC Universal threatening a lawsuit, claiming that Cohen had invited her to watch him hook up with another Bravo personality over FaceTime.
In response to Brandi’s claims, Andy Cohen admitted that the situation was inappropriate but maintained that it was meant as a joke that had been blown out of proportion. Brandi, however, was not amused and criticized Cohen for apologizing to his fans instead of to her directly.
The allegations made by Leah McSweeney and Brandi Glanville have sparked a conversation about the treatment of reality TV stars and the responsibilities of producers and networks in ensuring a safe and respectful work environment. As the lawsuits play out, it remains to be seen how the “Real Housewives” franchise and its stars will navigate these troubling accusations.
