'RHOBH' Executive Producer Alex Baskin Excited for Season 14: Promises 'Bananas' New Energy

Executive producer Alex Baskin is thrilled about the direction season 14 of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills is taking.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter on Tuesday, May 28, Baskin expressed his excitement, saying, "Beverly Hills is crazy right now. The season is off to an amazing start. Despite all the public drama in their personal lives, there is a new and exciting energy."

Baskin shared about the initial weeks of filming, mentioning how the cast went on a weekend trip together. It was a mix of bonding, healing, drama, and unexpected shifts in relationships.

Bravo announced that Kyle Richards, Erika Jayne, Garcelle Beauvais, Dorit Kemsley, and Sutton Stracke will be returning for season 14. Kathy Hilton and Jennifer Tilly will be making appearances as "friends," along with new cast member Bozoma Saint John.

"Boz [Saint John] fits right in with her fearless and bold personality," Baskin mentioned. "Kathy [Hilton] is in her element, being great, fun, and a little wacky, just like Jennifer Tilly."

Executive Producer Alex Baskin Says RHOBH Season 14 Is Off to a Great Start 3

Dorit Kemsley, Erika Jayne, Garcelle Beauvais, Sutton Stracke, and Kyle Richards are some of the stars on the show. (Photo Credit: Casey Durkin/Bravo)

The conclusion was that the show is a lot of fun. It was described as funny, raw, and real. It's off to a great start.

The new additions follow the departures of Crystal Kung Minkoff, who was on three seasons, and Annemarie Wiley, who joined during season 13. Baskin expressed optimism about how RHOBH would be perceived despite the changes in the cast.

Baskin also commented on the significant role that Kyle, 55, and Dorit’s personal lives would play in season 14. (In July 2023, it was confirmed that Kyle and estranged husband Mauricio Umansky had separated after twenty years of marriage. Dorit, 47, also announced her separation from PK Kemsley as cameras resumed filming for the current season.)

"They are both taking time to work through their personal issues, but they still care about each other deeply," he mentioned regarding their personal lives and the rift in their friendship. "They have been honest with each other from the start."

Executive Producer Alex Baskin Says RHOBH Season 14 Is Off to a Great Start 2

During Tuesday's interview, Baskin was also questioned about how discussions about creating fair and safe environments in unscripted TV led to changes on Bravo shows.

Annemarie Wiley, Sutton Stracke, Dorit Kemsley, Kyle Richards, Erika Jayne, Crystal Minkoff, and Garcelle Beauvais. Nicole Weingart/Bravo

There was a lot of talk about the new protocols implemented on NBCUniversal shows. However, the truth is that we have always had a forward-thinking approach when it comes to producing our shows. We continuously strive to be conscientious and responsible in our work. Despite the additional scrutiny, we have been evolving our practices over the years to ensure the safety, well-being, and health of everyone involved.

In conclusion, Baskin emphasized the high level of responsibility that is demonstrated throughout the productions. Many of the crew members and staff have been part of the shows for multiple seasons, fostering an open dialogue between the production team and the cast. This ensures that everyone feels comfortable and supported during the filming process.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills will likely return to Bravo in late 2024 or early 2025.

Editor's P/S:

The upcoming season of "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" promises to be filled with unexpected twists and turns. Executive producer Alex Baskin highlights the positive energy and excitement surrounding the cast, despite the public drama in their personal lives. The addition of Bozoma Saint John as a new cast member brings a fresh and bold perspective to the show, while the return of Kathy Hilton and Jennifer Tilly as "friends" adds a touch of familiarity.

The new season will delve into the personal struggles of Kyle Richards and Dorit Kemsley, as they navigate their separations and the impact on their friendship. Baskin emphasizes the importance of open and honest communication among the cast, which creates a supportive environment for navigating these challenges. The show's commitment to responsible production practices and the well-being of its participants remains a priority, ensuring that the cast and crew feel comfortable and supported throughout the filming process.