Andy Cohen weighs in on the rumors RHONJ is bringing back this nostalgic star

The rumor mill is churning within the Real Housewives of New Jersey fanbase with whispers that Bravo might be considering the return of a beloved former star. According to sources close to the production, there's chatter about potentially revamping the cast for the upcoming season. 

The speculation includes plans to introduce three new full-time members, while possibly bringing back Kathy Wakile in a supporting role to stir a sense of nostalgia. The additions come as the Gorgas are rumored to be exiting the show.

An insider told Bravo and Cocktails: “Bravo is looking into a bunch of scenarios for next season. Without a doubt, a minimum of three full-time newbies will be added. One idea at the moment is Teresa, Dolores, Jenn Fessler, Rachel & Danielle with Kathy as a friend of & 3 newbies. By bringing Kathy on, they think it could fill the nostalgia that would be gone once the Gorgas are out.”

These plans, still in the conceptual phase, suggest a blend of familiar faces like Teresa Giudice, Dolores Catania, Jenn Fessler, Rachel Fuda, Danielle Cabral, and the inclusion of Kathy as a friend the housewives. 

This move is seen as an attempt to bridge past and present elements of the show. It also ensures that the series maintains its connection to earlier seasons which many long-time viewers fondly remember.

While RHONJ fans would love to see Kathy return, Andy Cohen put some cold water on the rumors.

Andy Cohen dampens speculation on the latest RHONJ casting rumors

Despite the strong buzz among the show's audience, Andy, the face of Bravo's Watch What Happens Live, has a different take on the matter.

In a recent episode of his show, Andy addressed rumors sparked by Kathy’s surprise appearance, where she brought cannolis, a nod to her beloved stint on the show. A caller inquired if her cameo hinted at her return to RHONJ, sparking widespread speculation online.

"It's funny that you say that," Andy responded, per Bravo TV. 

He explained that Kathy’s appearance was merely a pleasant surprise for a guest who admires her, without any hidden motives or signals about her rejoining the cast. 

"There was no intention behind her visit besides seeing an old friend. We wanted to surprise Gary Janetti, who we know loves her and her cannolis. And so we just thought it would be fun if we had a, you know, vintage housewife come through the door," he elaborated.

Andy further dampened the speculation by stating that discussions about the next season haven't even commenced. "Everyone is speculating that it was kind of a soft launch to getting her back. We haven’t even started talking about next season. We want this one to end, let it sit, and then we will get into it," he said.

Longtime viewers remember Kathy as a mainstay from season 3 to season 5, later appearing in a lesser capacity for two more seasons. Her time on the show introduced audiences to her family life, including her husband Rich, sister Rosie, and her children, Joseph and Victoria Wakile, who have since grown up and moved forward with their own lives. 

Fans can stream episodes of RHONJ on Peacock.