Weeks after the tragic suicide of Russell Armstrong, the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills will premiere tonight as scheduled.
This morning, some of the cast members — Adrienne Maloof, Kyle Richards and Lisa Vanderpump alongside executive producer Douglas Ross –– visited the Today Show to promote the new season. It was a pretty sobering interview as of course, the topic of Russell was brought up.
When asked how Taylor Armstrong and her 5-year-old daughter Kennedy were coping in light of the tragedy, Adrienne stated she had spoken with Taylor at the wake, adding that “as is to be expected, she was very beside herself, obviously going through such a tragic … and I think her concern is her little girl now.”
The executive producer Douglas then confirmed the reports that Bravo had edited the new season following Russell’s death. “We, along with the network, took a hard look at the show and we decided to do some adjustments where appropriate in light of the circumstances. Our goal has always been to make an honest and accurate story about the ladies and what goes on in their life. We want to be and always are respectful and responsible, and in this case, trying to be very appropriate.”
Russell will not be featured in the first couple of episodes and likely the entire season though scenes with Taylor discussing her marital issues will remain intact. “It is important to know that Taylor’s story is told throughout the season,” he added.
Kyle also defended the show, echoing Bethenny Frankel’s earlier comments which is that Russell and other reality stars sign up to do the shows. “He also signed up for this season one, and came back for season two,” said Kyle. “When we started this show they cast six strong women and they didn’t really know anything about our stories. … We certainly didn’t know the troubles that he had.”
It’s likely that in light of the editing/Bravo working hard to remove scenes with Russell, newbies Brandi Glanville and Dana Wilkey, will probably end up having more of a presence on the show.
And finally, Taylor Armstrong stepped out for the first time without a disguise just days ago. Taylor, 40, was photographed running errands in Beverly Hills on Aug. 31. She was pictured without her wedding ring on. Those photos are below.
Below is a preview clip from tonight’s premiere!
TELL US – STILL EXCITED ABOUT THE NEW SEASON? THOUGHTS ON THE TODAY SHOW INTERVIEW & TONIGHT’S PREMIERE?
CLICK THE CONTINUE READING BUTTON TO SEE THE NEW PHOTOS OF TAYLOR –
August 31, 2011: Taylor Armstrong is photographed out running errands in Beverly Hills. She is not pictured with her wedding ring on.
Credit: INFphoto.com
