After months (and we mean months) of rumors, pauses, re-starts, and re-castings, The Real Housewives of Atlanta is finally back—and it’s coming in hot! Season 16 is here to reclaim the A’s reality TV show crown with a mix of returning icons, fresh faces, and drama already sending fans into a frenzy.
Bravo promises “new vibes and even higher stakes of glamour, glitz, and juicy drama,” and judging by what we know so far, they’re not lying! With divorces, rumors, and strained relationships already on the table, plus a few surprise reunions, this season is set to deliver the messiness we love
So, what exactly took so long? Andy Cohen admitted on a recent podcast, “We really took our time with this one.” And fans seem to be glad they did.
From the promo clips, tweets, and blogs, it seems the cast shake-up and new storylines are giving everything they need to give. Here’s what we know.
Frick & Frack Are Back In Season 16 – RHOA Fans Are Loving Porsha Williams and Phaedra Parks Back On Screen
One thing about Bravo? When the Housewives franchise needs a little CPR, they will call in reinforcements. And this time, that means Porsha Williams and Phaedra Parks are reuniting on screen!
Porsha, who first joined the show in Season 5 and became a fan favorite for nine seasons, is making a grand return after a three-year break. She was one of the first icons to announce her return amid her breakup with her husband, Simon Guobadia.
RELATED: Porsha Williams Will Return To ‘The Real Housewives Of Atlanta&’
Phaedra joined the RHOA train again in July 2024 after Kenya’s abrupt exit to make things even better. Fans couldn’t get enough of Southern Belle, who was fresh off Dancing With The Stars, Traitors, and Married to Medicine.
Now, the two natural-born baddies and reality TV icons grace the screen together again. Frick and Frack – nicknames from previous seasons – have entered the chat.
Speaking about their reunion, Porsha told Deadline, “I enjoy the reunion of Frick and Frack. Phaedra and I have not had many opportunities, because, as you can see, my girl is on everybody [else’s] show. She’s doing everything, and we’re both very busy.”
Talking about being busy, the duo spent time together in Lagos last winter, and it was everything. Social media posts from the trip went viral this December, showing lavish fits, cars, and outings. We can’t wait to see if these moments make it into the new season.
There are Four New RHOA Peaches & Iconic Supporting Roles in Season 16
The RHOA cast has undergone a major glow-up. In addition to favs like Phaedra, Porsha, and Drew Sidora, there are four new Housewives in the spotlight.
Shamea Morton, longtime RHOA bestie (and Porsha’s ride-or-die), is officially leveling up to full-time status. No more “friend of the show” title—Shamea is stepping into her own with confidence, luxury, and a jaw-dropping estate to match. Angela Oakley, a certified basketball wife, Angela is married to former NBA star Charles Oakley. With her WAG status, we expect courtside glam, lavish lifestyle moments, and a lot of flexing.
Kelli Ferrell and Brit Eady round out the list of new wives. These two BFFs are bringing their tight-knit friendship into the mix. Kelli is a well-known Georgia restaurateur, so we’re already expecting some top-tier dinner party moments (with a side of shade, of course).
For the OG fans wondering about Kenya Moore, she’s still twirling onto our screens this season. But for how long will we have to tune in and see? (Kenya had a public separation from the franchise in 2024 after an incident with new cast member Brit).
RELATED: Team Twirl Forever? Kenya Moore Will Not Return To The ‘Real Housewives Of Atlanta’
Andy Cohen said that Kenya and Cynthia Bailey would both have supporting roles this time around.
Is Shamea Morton the New RHOA ‘It Girl’?
Bravo is dropping all kinds of hints that Shamea is the new “It Girl” of RHOA. The network recently released a glam-filled intro video showcasing Shamea’s luxurious estate, her husband Gerald (who is the HVAC king), and her lavish lifestyle—complete with chandeliers, a glass elevator, and a Rolls-Royce.
Beyond the wealth, Shamea brings personality. With a bubbly attitude, a lot to say, a chic pixie cut, and a signature red lip, she’s got all the makings of a breakout star. If Bravo is pushing her this hard pre-season, we already know she’s about to shake things up.
Season 16 of RHOA premieres Sunday, March 9 at 8 p.m. ET.