Trigger Warning: This article contains mentions of alleged emotional and physical abuse, harassment, and threats.
Racquel Chevremont is dealing with something far more serious than reality TV drama. The art curator and model, who appeared on Season 14 of The Real Housewives of New York, is suing her ex-girlfriend, artist Mickalene Thomas, for $14 million.
According to court filings in New York, Racquel says Mickalene exploited her both personally and professionally. The two shared a long relationship that mixed romance and creative work, but things reportedly fell apart in 2020 after a series of painful incidents.
Racquel Chevremont could take ex Mickalene Thomas to court
According to Page Six, The lawsuit accuses Mickalene of “escalating abuse — emotional, and ultimately physical.” It also states, “After Ms. Thomas assaulted her, Ms. Chevremont ended their romantic relationship.”
Even after the breakup, Racquel says she kept working for Mickalene. Her jobs ranged from modeling in her artwork to helping manage business deals and gallery relationships. The suit claims things “became increasingly hostile when Ms. Chevremont rejected her advances.” Racquel also accuses Mickalene of “searching through her purse and cell phone.” Additionally, she accused her of forwarding “sexy photos” to herself, leaving her feeling “violated and unsafe.”
Court papers allege that Mickalene “went so far as to threaten Ms. Chevremont with physical violence if she were to date other women.” The filing also claims Mickalene told Racquel she had installed a video camera in her bedroom and “suggested that she would reveal embarrassing photos or videos if Ms. Chevremont did not respond to her questions or keep her informed about her dating life.”
Racquel says Mickalene later “illegally fired” her and tried to “blackball her in the art world.” She also claims she was underpaid for her work, which included “overseeing contract negotiations, liaising with galleries and collectors, managing commissions, and handling aspects of Ms. Thomas’ professional career.” One part of the suit says Mickalene promised “extraordinary bonuses, including up to $2 million for renegotiating a multi-million art transaction” with collector, Jose Mugrabi.
A rep for Mickalene has pushed back against Racquel’s claims. “The allegations made by her ex-girlfriend are completely false and a desperate attempt to remain relevant and profit off Mickalene’s hard-earned reputation,” the spokesperson told ARTnews.
Mickalene’s art has made her one of the most recognized contemporary artists today. She’s known for bold, colorful portraits of Black women that feature acrylic paint and rhinestones. Her work appears in major museums, including New York’s Whitney Museum of American Art and the Museum of Modern Art.
Reps for Racquel have not commented.
Racquel joined the Real Housewives of New York reboot in 2023, which featured an entirely new cast. Production is currently on pause, and another cast shake-up is underway. Her time on the show was brief, yet she stood out for bringing a quieter, art-world sophistication to the cast.
The Real Housewives of New York streams on Peacock.
TELL US – WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON RACQUEL’S CASE AGAINST MICKALENE? WILL THEY SETTLE OUT OF COURT?
