In a bombshell legal filing that has sent shockwaves through the reality television world, former The Real Housewives of New York City star Racquel Chevremont is taking on media giants Bravo and NBCUniversal. The lawsuit paints a damning picture of a toxic, discriminatory, and psychologically damaging work environment behind the glamorous facade of the hit franchise.
Chevremont, who appeared in the show's 14th season, alleges she was subjected to racial discrimination, emotional distress, and was strong-armed into filming shortly after a terrifying cancer diagnosis scare. The suit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, names NBCUniversal Media, Bravo Media, and production company Shed Media as defendants.
The 'Sickness Clause' and a Cancer Scare
One of the most shocking allegations centres on what the suit terms a "sickness clause." According to court documents, Chevremont received a potentially life-altering medical diagnosis just before filming commenced. Despite the severe emotional and physical toll, she claims producers pressured her to return to set almost immediately, leveraging the clause in her contract.
The suit states she was told her "storyline" and "drama" were more important than her health, creating an unbearable and inhumane working conditions.
Allegations of Racial Discrimination and a Toxic Culture
Beyond the health scare, Chevremont's lawsuit accuses the production of fostering a culture rife with racial bias. She claims she was consistently paid less than her white co-stars and was deliberately edited to fit a negative, stereotypical "angry Black woman" narrative.
The suit further alleges that producers intentionally manipulated storylines and instigated conflict among cast members to create maximum drama, prioritising ratings over the mental well-being of the women involved.
A Broader Reckoning for Reality TV?
This lawsuit arrives amidst growing scrutiny of the practices behind reality television. It echoes similar complaints from other former Bravolebrities and raises serious questions about the duty of care networks owe to their stars.
Chevremont is seeking unspecified damages for a range of claims including racial discrimination, failure to prevent discrimination, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and unfair business practices. NBCUniversal has declined to comment on the pending litigation.
