Kandi Burruss Opens Up About Andy Cohen's Reaction to Her Break From 'RHOA'

Kandi Burress Reveals Andy Cohen s Reaction to Her Decision to Leave RHOA

Kandi Burress, Andy Cohen. Getty Images (2)

Kandi Burruss surprised both Andy Cohen and Bravo by making the decision to leave The Real Housewives of Atlanta on her own.

During the Thursday, February 29, episode of “The Viall Files” podcast, Kandi, 47, revealed, “They didn’t pause me, I paused myself, to be clear. Andy was actually sad that I left.” She continued, “He and I had our heart-to-heart before anybody else in the world knew. We had our own moment.”

Kandi announced her departure from RHOA at the 2024 Grammys, informing executive producer Andy of her decision beforehand.

She shared, "My agent sent a letter to the production company and network, expressing my gratitude for the opportunity but stating that I will not be returning. I was unaware of the letter being sent at that moment. Andy called me later that day, expressing his surprise and confusion. I waited for him to clarify before discussing further."

Kandi revealed that Andy was uncertain about the situation, stating, "I mean, I don’t know how I feel about this at all." In response, she expressed her own uncertainty, saying, "I don’t know how I feel about it either, but I just think that it’s time."

Kandi became a cast member of RHOA in season 2 in 2009 and remained on the show until season 15 in 2023. This makes her the Housewife with the longest consecutive service in the history of the franchise.

"I have been contemplating when the right time is for me to step back in the past few years. Will I just continue until they decide to pause me?" she shared on Thursday. "I have always questioned myself every year about what my plan should be. However, this year, the decision to recast a few individuals was looming. Following the conclusion of the previous season, it was evident that interviews for replacements would commence after a couple of months."

During this period, Kandi focused on advancing her film and music career, with the ultimate goal of achieving an EGOT. She also made significant strides outside of RHOA while awaiting further contract negotiations with Bravo.

Kandi expressed that the decision to return was ultimately hers to make, unlike receiving a pickup letter and being obligated to go back like most of the time. She mentioned the note she would have received if her contract was active and the network chose to bring her back for more episodes. As the months passed, she found herself contemplating the idea further, realizing that if she wanted to pursue certain aspirations, the time to do so was now.

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Kandi denied leaving RHOA because of salary demands, stating that she does not inquire about others' salaries and prefers they don't ask about hers. She emphasized to host Nick Viall that her decision was not motivated by money, acknowledging that everyone needs money but choosing to focus on pursuing other opportunities at the moment.

Editor's P/S:

Kandi Burruss's departure from "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" is a significant moment in the history of the franchise. As the longest-serving Housewife, her decision to leave on her own terms is a testament to her confidence and her desire to pursue other opportunities. It is clear from the article that Andy Cohen was surprised and saddened by Kandi's decision, indicating the strong bond they had developed over the years.

Kandi's reasons for leaving are multifaceted. She has been contemplating the move for years, and the recent recasting of several cast members likely influenced her decision. She is also eager to focus on her film and music career, with the ultimate goal of achieving an EGOT. It is refreshing to see a Housewife prioritizing her own aspirations and not being afraid to step away from the reality TV spotlight. Kandi's departure is a reminder that the Housewives are more than just characters on a show; they are complex individuals with their own dreams and goals.