After not so patiently waiting, we’re happy that The Real Housewives of New York is back! And the long-running series has a whole new cast, including our cover girl, Erin Lichy. Get to know this NYC and Hamptons face, as you’ll be seeing a lot of her on the revamped show—where she may or may not be bringing the drama. So without further ado, meet Erin!
Erin, you’re one of the new cast members of Real Housewives of New York. Why did you decide to join the show?
I was so excited to show the world my version of New York. It’s different when you’re raised here. You have a different relationship with the city and what it has to offer.
How did growing up in NYC impact who you are today?
We grow up fast as city kids. You’re offered so much at a young age. Beyond that, we’re so cultured. That’s my favorite part about being from New York. I just grew up with everything at my fingertips—restaurants, extracurricular activities, theater, opera, music. When I was 10 my favorite soundtracks were Les Misérables and Phantom of the Opera. How many kids can say that?
How’d you land on the show?
I was recommended by a friend who was in talks with the network, and that was that!
What was your reaction when you found out you got it?
Believe it or not, it was on my 35th birthday, so it was pretty epic that it fell on a milestone occasion!
How would you describe your personality?
I’d say I’m fun, motivated, entrepreneurial, loyal, loving, sensitive, family-oriented, and I truly do have a zest for life.
What can fans expect from you in your debut season?
Expect me to be direct, which is just how I am naturally. Good sense of style…I think? You’ll see me multitask a lot, which can be a real challenge sometimes! I value my family over almost anything. I love to host, and I adore my friends. But if you cross me, it’s hard for me to come back.
Who of the cast have you gotten closest to?
I’m honestly close with all of them! I talk to Sai [de Silva] almost every day. I love Jenna [Lyons] and trust her implicitly, and Ubah and I have a deep connection that I can’t explain. Brynn [Whitfield] and I have a total seesaw relationship, but we have so much fun together, and Jessel [Taank] and I are always on good terms, even if we don’t talk all the time.
What makes your cast different from the original RHONY group?
The former cast is legendary. I hope we can make them proud! We are diverse, cosmopolitan, and we ran in different aspects of our personalities where I think a lot of the other women were more similar to each other.
Did you know any of the girls before filming?
Yes, but not all. And the ones I didn’t know were, like, one degree of separation.
Were you a fan of Housewives before joining?
I loved RHONY back in the day! The show used to make me laugh like crazy.
Will fans find you involved in the drama this season?
Just might!
How did you handle it?
Mostly well, but there were times when I broke down, I’ll be honest.
What hesitations, if any, did you have going into the show?
Mostly in regard to my family. My husband, who is my best friend, was supportive in the decision. That made things much easier.
You were under the [Frederick] Eklund/Gomes team. Did Frederick give you any advice ahead of filming?
He did! He said I should speak my mind and don’t be afraid to cry or yell if that’s how I was feeling in the moment. [Laughs] What that really equates to is, be your true authentic self.
Who else gave you words of wisdom?
My parents and siblings. They said, be you, because we love you! So cute.
You wear many hats; you’re an interior designer and real estate agent, and you’ve also worked in fashion. What’s at the center of your career right now?
Real estate and design, but the design aspect is now being integrated more into the real estate business. More details on that soon! I’m also excited about a new spirit brand I’m working on!
You’re the only cast member to have a house in the Hamptons. Will fans get to see your world Out East?
Sure will! I always say when I hit Exit 70, it’s like the biggest exhale. I can breathe Out East. I’m so beyond grateful for our time in our home and community. I grew up coming out here, so I have lots of memories. Almost every Thanksgiving is spent in the Hamptons, summers, and even lots of New Year’s. For us, the Hamptons has everything. You can be a total recluse or the most social person. You can go to a vineyard or the beach. You can eat seafood with your hands on a little dock or go to a fancy restaurant.
Favorite things to do here?
Spending time at home, hosting or cooking with my kids. I love taking out a boat, horseback riding, going to Wölffer Estate for a wine tasting. I love taking my kids to the bay so they can wade in the water. There’s really not much I don’t love about the Hamptons…besides the traffic!
What did filming RHONY teach you about yourself?
That I’m a girl’s girl, and I love and cherish the time I get to spend with my friends.
Hidden talent?
I love to cook but happen to be good at baking.
Fun fact?
I can eat a lot more than one would assume, and live music keeps me sane and grounded.
What’s next?
My new mezcal brand is coming very soon, and it’s extremely unusual in the world of spirit. My husband and I and our partner are so passionate about it. After years of wanting to do it, now feels like the right time. I can’t wait to share it with everyone!
