The Real Housewives of Orange CountyTurns 18: See How Andy Cohen and the Cast Celebrated Milestone

Mar. 15, 2025

Photo:Evans Vestal Ward/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty

Evans Vestal Ward/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty

The Real Housewives of Orange Countyhas come of age!

On Thursday, executive producerAndy Cohenmarked the 18th anniversary ofThe Real Housewives of Orange County’sfirst episode airing with a throwback pic of the O.G.s of the O.C.: Vicki Gunvalson, Jo De La Rosa, Lauri Peterson and Jeana Keough (Kim Bryant was not pictured).

“‘The Real Housewives of Orange County” premiered on Bravo EIGHTEEN years ago today!!!'” Cohen captioned the photo. “I didn’t know then how that show- and over a hundred incredible women over ten-plus spinoffs - would change pop culture, and my life! THANK YOU TO THE HOUSEWIVES for all you give us, and to the incredible production teams at Evolution, Shed Media, Truly Original, Sirens Media, & Purveyors of POP. (Pictured: the REAL OG’s of the whole damn thing, minus Kim Bryant!)”

Indeed,RHOC, initially an unscripted docuseries about affluent women living in Coto de Caza’s gated community, would kick off anentire franchiseonBravoand later the streaming service Peacock.

The Real Housewivesfranchise now spans 10 currently airing shows, including an international version in Dubai, as well as numerous specials and spin-offs, includingVanderpump Rules.

“Time flies when you’re having fun. What the heck was I wearing????😮,” Gunvalson, who starred on the show from seasons 1-13 and returned in a “friend” capacity in season 14, wrote in the caption.

“I can’t believe it’s been 18 years! Also, not my caramel hair and added curls to make it even worse! 😂🤣,” chimed in De La Rosa, who exited the show after season 2.

Tammy Knickerbocker; Vicki Gunvalson; Andy Cohen; Jeana Keough (standing); Jo De La Rosa, Quinn Fry; Tamra Barney; Lauri Waring at the “Watch What Happens Special”.Kelsey McNeal/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty

Kelsey McNeal/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty

Castmembers who joined in later seasons also paid homage to the series.

“They paved the way 🤍🍊,” wrote season 3 addition Tamra Judge, who included an orange emoji. The housewives hold the signature citrus in the show’s opening credits.

“Wow! 18yrs! So wild! What a journey!” added Gretchen Rossi, who appeared in seasons 4-8.

“Wow. Crazy. So happy to have been a part of the 1st franchise!❤️” wrote Peggy Tanous, who joined the cast full-time one season in season 6.

Season 17finished airing in October 2023 and featured Judge, Shannon Storms Beador, Heather Dubrow, Gina Kirschenheiter, Emily Simpson and newcomer Jennifer Pedranti. Gunvalson appeared in a guest role.

Production on Season 18 is currently underway withformer O.C. housewife Alexis Bellino returning. Bravo does not comment on casting.

Previous seasons ofThe Real Housewives of Orange Countycan be streamed on Peacock.

source: people.com