How 'The Real Housewives of Rhode Island' Came to Be, According to an NBCU Executive

The last time Bravo launched a new "Real Housewives" franchise was four years ago in Dubai, a show that featured a lavish locale and an entertaining ensemble cast. So, NBCUniversal knew that the next city to debut would have to make its mark with its own unique cast of characters and jaw-dropping backdrop. Enter Rhode Island, the Ocean State often outshone by its more famous neighbor, Massachusetts. But Pamela Gimenez, the VP of unscripted, lifestyle and docs for Bravo and Peacock, said the community-focused, ocean-based culture of Rhode Island provided an alluring framework for a new . . .