Leah Remini and Tracy Tutor Join RHOBH Season 16 Amid Cast Shakeups

Key points

• Leah Remini, known for her anti-Scientology activism and acting career, joins the show as a full-time cast member.
• Tracy Tutor, a former Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles star, also joins the cast, having announced her participation on Instagram in August.
• Amanda Frances, who joined for Season 15, was not asked back, despite a public message from Rihanna supporting her return.
• Returning cast members include Kyle Richards, Erika Jayne, Dorit Kemsley, Bozoma Saint John, Rachel Zoe, and Sutton Stracke.
• Kathy Hilton and Jennifer Tilly are returning as 'friends' of the cast rather than full-time members.
• Season 16 filming has already started, with some cast members attending Bozoma Saint John's wedding in Ghana on August 21.

Background

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills is the most-watched edition of the 20-year-old franchise, though it frequently faces fan criticism for its cast composition. Recent seasons have seen significant turnover, including the departure of Amanda Frances after one season. The show's executive producer, Andy Cohen, has previously noted that fans often call for major cast overhauls, which this season's changes may address.

How outlets are covering it

Variety and Deadline both confirm the casting of Remini and Tutor, with Variety providing detailed background on Remini's anti-Scientology work and Tutor's real estate career. Deadline notes that TMZ was the first to report Remini's casting. Bravo's coverage focuses on Tutor's personal relationships, such as her friendship with Josh Flagg, rather than the cast changes. All sources agree on the return of core cast members and the exclusion of Amanda Frances, though Variety highlights the fan speculation that preceded the official announcements.

Why it matters

The addition of high-profile figures like Leah Remini and Tracy Tutor signals a significant shift in the show's dynamics, potentially addressing long-standing fan demands for a cast overhaul. The departure of Amanda Frances and the return of veteran cast members may influence viewer engagement and the show's reputation within the broader Real Housewives franchise.

What to watch

Leah Remini is set to begin filming in Los Angeles later this week, while other cast members have already participated in production. The full Season 16 cast will likely be revealed as filming progresses, with potential storylines emerging from the interactions between new and returning members.