Kathryn Edwards, a former cast member of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (RHOBH), has re-entered the conversation surrounding the show by voicing her opinions on Erika Jayne’s controversial communication style. During a recent appearance on the Behind the Velvet Rope with David Yontef podcast, Kathryn didn’t hold back, offering pointed criticism of Erika’s approach to interpersonal drama on the show.
Erika Jayne, known for her sharp tongue and unapologetic demeanor, has built a reputation as one of the most polarizing figures in RHOBH. Her fiery confrontations, biting remarks, and refusal to back down have kept her in the spotlight for nine seasons. But not everyone in the RHOBH universe is impressed by her style.
Kathryn Edwards—who starred in Season 6 alongside Erika—suggested that Erika’s combative mannerisms often cross the line. “You’re not going to see [Sutton or Garcelle] talk to people the way Erika does, where she grits her teeth and curses someone out, calling them every name in the book,” Kathryn stated. “No, no, sorry. That’s just not who they are.”
Kathryn drew a stark contrast between Erika and her fellow RHOBH castmates Sutton Stracke and Garcelle Beauvais, who Erika recently accused of “performing” for the cameras. Kathryn defended Sutton and Garcelle, describing them as authentic individuals who navigate conflicts with more tact and restraint.
“I don’t agree with [Erika’s accusation],” Kathryn said. “Maybe it feels that way to her because they don’t go as low as she does. But that doesn’t make them less real. It just means they’re not assholes.”
Kathryn also praised Sutton’s willingness to confront difficult topics, recalling instances when Sutton stuck her neck out and showed vulnerability. “What about the year Sutton was crying when she was fighting with Crystal [Kung Minkoff]? She wasn’t always safe. She put herself out there,” Kathryn noted.
While Kathryn acknowledged Erika’s ability to stay relevant and deliver dramatic moments over nine seasons, she hinted that Erika’s methods could alienate her from the cast and audience. “She’s brought it. She’s delivered every season,” Kathryn admitted. “But at what cost?”
This isn’t the first time Erika’s approach has drawn criticism. Over the years, her tendency to lash out during heated moments has polarized viewers and cast members alike. Some see her as a fearless truth-teller, while others view her as unnecessarily harsh and dismissive.
Kathryn’s remarks highlight a broader issue within RHOBH: the balancing act between authenticity and sensationalism. As the show’s cast continues to evolve, so do the dynamics and expectations for how the women engage with each other. Erika’s approach has undeniably made for compelling television, but it raises questions about the sustainability of such tactics in maintaining relationships both on and off-screen.
Kathryn’s defense of Sutton and Garcelle adds another layer to the ongoing drama, reinforcing the idea that there’s more than one way to captivate an audience. Whether Erika’s fiery style remains an asset or becomes a liability for RHOBH is something only time—and future seasons—will reveal.