Real Housewives of Rhode Island Cast Revealed: Ashley Iaconetti and Dolores Catania Join Franchise

Bravo has officially announced the cast for its newest series, The Real Housewives of Rhode Island. The network confirmed the full lineup, featuring a mix of local personalities and familiar faces from reality television. The show is set to premiere later this year, bringing the franchise’s signature drama to the Ocean State.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the cast includes former Bachelor star Ashley Iaconetti. In a surprise move, The Real Housewives of New Jersey fixture Dolores Catania will also appear in a “friend-of” role. This marks a significant expansion for the popular Bravo franchise.

Meet the Real Housewives of Rhode Island Cast

The main cast is composed of six women with deep ties to the state. Ashley Iaconetti, known for her time on The Bachelor and Bachelor in Paradise, now lives in Rhode Island with her husband, Jared Haibon. The couple are parents to two young sons and co-own a local coffee shop.

Other cast members include Alicia, a Rhode Island native who helps run her fiancé’s restaurant, Pizza Mamma. Rosie DiMare is a former news anchor who now hosts a lifestyle show and works as a DJ. Liz McGraw, described as “Rhode Island royalty,” operates the state’s largest cannabis dispensary with her husband.

Familiar Faces and Local Power Players

The inclusion of Dolores Catania bridges two Housewives franchises. Her role is expected to be recurring, offering guidance and perhaps stirring controversy. This crossover strategy has been successful for Bravo in the past, generating significant viewer interest between different city franchises.

The cast is rounded out by financial powerhouse Rulla Nehme Pontarelli and former Miss Rhode Island Kelsey Swanson. Jo-Ellen Tiberi, a self-proclaimed town gossip from Cranston, completes the main roster. This diverse group promises a blend of high-stakes business, family dynamics, and luxurious coastal living.

The show will explore their interconnected lives and social circles. Producers aim to highlight the unique character of Rhode Island, from its tight-knit communities to its opulent seaside estates. The series is currently in production, with filming underway across the state.

This new chapter for the Real Housewives franchise is highly anticipated, promising fresh drama and a unique New England flavor with the official Real Housewives of Rhode Island cast.

Dropping this nugget your way

Who is in the Real Housewives of Rhode Island cast?

The main cast includes Ashley Iaconetti, Alicia, Rosie DiMare, Liz McGraw, Rulla Nehme Pontarelli, and Kelsey Swanson. Dolores Catania from RHONJ will also appear in a “friend-of” capacity throughout the season.

When does the new RHODI series premiere?

Bravo has not announced an exact premiere date yet. The network has only confirmed that the show is in production and will debut later this year. Specific scheduling details are expected soon.

Is Ashley Iaconetti moving to Rhode Island?

Ashley Iaconetti already lives in Rhode Island with her husband, Jared Haibon, who is a native of the state. They are raising their two sons there and are involved in the local business community.

What is Dolores Catania’s role on the show?

Dolores Catania will not be a full-time housewife. She is slated as a “friend-of” the cast, a recurring role where she will likely make appearances to offer advice and interact with the main cast members.

Where in Rhode Island is the show filmed?

Filming is taking place across various locations in Rhode Island. Specific areas mentioned include North Kingstown and Cranston, showcasing the state’s diverse communities and coastal scenery.