A new era of Bravo stars is making headlines, and Next Gen NYC proved that the second generation can be just as exciting as their predecessors. This season, Ariana Biermann, daughter of Kim Zolciak of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, is really standing out because of her multiple love interests and escalating drama.
It’s almost reminiscent of Kim breaking out on RHOA during her time. Could Ariana have picked up Kim’s best reality TV trait and become the polarizing figure on her own series?
After all, nice gals are great, but the standout stars are usually the ones that make waves. And this season on Next Gen, as Ariana juggles her feelings for three potential love interests, she’s certainly not shying away from rocking the boat like her mom.
How Kim Zolciak made a name for herself on The Real Housewives of Atlanta
Anybody who’s a fan of the Real Housewives knows Kim. She debuted as one of the original Housewives on RHOA in 2008. She was always unapologetically herself.
This authenticity made some fans find her entertaining. However, others viewed her as self-centered or out of touch. The polarizing effect she had on everyone was part of her appeal. Viewers eagerly anticipated what she would do next.
Whether it was dating Big Poppa or her marriage to Kroy Biermann, Kim put her personal life front and center. And in the end, whether or not fans agreed with her (and many did not), she always gave people something to talk about. She eventually grew bigger than the ensemble.
That was one of the reasons Kim made good TV. Despite the tumultuous events of her life, Kim always understood the assignment. When challenged about what she wanted, she would double down instead of backing away. She always keeps storylines moving.
Even now, away from the cameras, Kim’s still embroiled in drama with her current boyfriend and her ongoing divorce. Her confidence made her a breakout star, and it looks like she’s passed that confidence to her daughter despite early reservations.
When news of a potential “second generation” show first dropped, fans weren’t too sure if Ariana would be as captivating as her mom. That was back when the working title was still Making It in Manhattan. Kim’s daughter, though, certainly proved doubters wrong.
Ariana Biermann’s journey is emulating mom Kim on Next Gen NYC Season 2
Next Gen NYC’s maiden season became Bravo’s most-watched season premiere. Fans were excited to see the new generation do their thing, especially the kids of their faves. And as the first season progressed, Ariana proved she could make a name for herself outside of Kim’s shadow.
Despite a big cast, Ariana was a breakout star during her first season of Next Gen because, like Kim, Ariana was authentic. Love it or hate it, she shared it all. She spoke about her family’s messy finances, her strained relationship with her dad, and the terrible divorce fallout. Ariana also didn’t have a problem speaking her mind, even if that meant fighting with castmates along the way (luckily, no wigs were pulled off!)
But if Ariana’s unapologetic first season felt reminiscent of Kim, her second season emulated her mom even more. Ariana herself called it her “crash out” season. This time around, she’s sharing everything about her breakup with Hudson McLeroy and juggling potential new love interests.
One new man in Ariana’s life is Liam Obergfoll, whom she met at a party. Despite their budding connection, she reconnected with Hudson because the pair weren’t quite done yet. Hello love triangle! But then that shattered when Charlie Zakkour entered the picture (yes, that Charlie!) Love square anyone?
It’s been quite a messy ride for these young lovers, and the midseason trailer indicated it’s going to get even messier. Castmates told her flat out, “You gotta pick one. Charlie, Hudson, or Liam?” No spoiler intended, but it looks like we know who she eventually picks, at least for now.
Yikes! Honestly, like her momma, love it or hate it, fans are glued to Ariana’s drama right now!
Could Ariana eventually eclipse Kim’s reality TV career?
At the end of the day, Ariana is living unapologetically. She’s already proven that, like Kim, she doesn’t shy away from life’s curveballs. She has already made a name for herself two seasons into her show, and it doesn’t look like she’s slowing down.
Between Next Gen, her own personal social media brand, and a growing list of endorsements and engagements as a reality star and influencer, could Ariana be on her way to eclipsing her famous mom?
Only time will truly tell, but it could go either way. Today’s media landscape isn’t as forgiving as it was during Kim’s time. Every misstep is dissected immediately and can follow a cast member long after the season finale. However, growing up in the world and the biz, Ariana might have what it takes to navigate it well.
If she can continue to be authentic, drive conversation, and live her life out loud, she may not just follow in Kim’s footsteps; she could create a Bravo legacy all on her own.
Next Gen NYC streams on Peacock.
TELL US – DO YOU SEE SIMILARITIES BETWEEN ARIANA AND KIM? DO YOU THINK ARIANA WILL BECOME A REALITY TV JUGGERNAUT LIKE HER MOM?
