Credit: GUSTAVO PEREYRA/INSTARimages
Despite her ‘villain’ status — or perhaps because of it — Lisa Rinna is considered one of the greatest catalysts for drama on Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Her current season of the show boasts higher ratings than almost every series on the network.
The hatred of Lisa is a central part of the fanbase, and viewers have been calling for her firing for years. Even so, Lisa’s ability to stir the pot (and trigger awkward conversations) is a huge factor in the show’s success.
According to sources who spoke to Radar Online, Lisa is now renegotiating her Bravo contract, demanding to be the highest paid Housewife or she’ll leave the show.
“At this point, Bravo needs Lisa more than Lisa needs Bravo. She was a star before Bravo and will be a star long after Bravo too,” said the insiders.
“Lisa knows her worth and knows how to negotiate. Only Lisa is willing to call their bluff and walk away if she doesn’t get the deal she wants. While the other ladies are frightened to upset Andy [Cohen], Lisa is fearless. She’s not frightened of him or anyone else.”
The sources claim Lisa is seeking $2 million for season 13. This would make her the top-earning Housewife in the entire franchise. As of now, the title belongs to Real Housewives of Atlanta’s Kandi Burruss, who reportedly makes just under $2 million each season.
As of now, Lisa’s negotiations are ongoing, and the actress hasn’t signed anything yet. Lisa’s rep told the outlet, “No comment.”
Radar previously reported that Lisa won’t attend BravoCon with her colleagues this year. A source explained, “Rinna was invited, but due to scheduling isn’t available.”
The insider claimed it has “nothing to do with the reunion” despite recent speculation.
RHOBH salaries have risen dramatically in the last decade. In 2014, Radar reported that the paychecks of Lisa Vanderpump, Yolanda Foster, and Kyle Richards jumped to $500,000. Before this, Vanderpump purportedly earned $250,000, and Kyle made $200,000.
In the same year, actress Eileen Davidson reportedly signed a deal to make $750,000.
The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills season 12 airs Wednesdays at 8/7c on Bravo.