“The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” was set to premiere in September. We were ready to rejoin the crazy train with Camille Grammer, Kyle Richards, Kim Richards, Taylor Armstrong, Lisa Vanderpump and Adrienne Maloof. This season even features two “friends of the housewives,” Dana Wilkey and Brandi Glanville. Unfortunately, we have a sad story to report instead.
TMZ has confirmed the death by suicide of cast member Russell Armstrong, Taylor’s husband. On Season 1, Russell’s notable moments included an awkward birthday toast to his wife as their relationship grew apart, and his purchase of a dog for his daughter against Taylor’s wishes. In recent months, news outlets have reported allegations of abuse between the couple, and Taylor filing for divorce.
Reports say that Armstrong’s body was found hanging in his bedroom; the 47-year-old did not leave a suicide note. Bravo has not yet announced what will happen on the new season. There’s one series precedent: “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” continued with a special note when the fiancee of Kandi Burruss was killed in a strip club fight; A.J. Jewell was 34.
Season 1 of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” featured an ongoing argument between Taylor and Kim Richards that escalated at Camille Grammer’s dinner party from hell on the season finale. One of the most touching parts of Taylor’s story line, however, was her charity work for women who had been abused. She revealed at that time that she was an abuse survivor herself. Taylor also threw an extravagant tea party for daughter Kennedy on one memorable episode.
“The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” is definitely a favorite show in the reality franchise. The last couple of years saw less successful show launches with “The Real Housewives of DC” and “The Real Housewives of Miami.” “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” is currently running, and “The Real Housewives of New York” just wrapped. Bravo exec Andy Cohen oversees the series and hosts its late night review talk show “Watch What Happens Live.”
We will never know the story behind Russell and Taylor’s relationship, but a suicide is always sad and unfortunate. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline in the United States can be reached at (800) 273-8255. Our condolences to all involved, particularly Kennedy and Taylor Armstrong.
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