Real Housewives in Hong Kong?

The network’s go-to gossip blog Bravo and Cocktails reported that Real Housewives: Ultimate Girls Trip’s season four will take place in Hong Kong, with filming set to commence in January 2023 for one week.

An insider told the blog: “I work for the product [team] on Ultimate Girls Trip, and the fourth season has been cast and will film this coming January in Hong Kong,” noting the new season will have a “Dynamic Duos” theme, unlike previous seasons.

Who is in it?

While the cast and location have not been confirmed by the network, it’s worth noting that details are not revealed until months after filming, and the cast members are expected to keep their involvement mum until closer to the airing date. However, it’s also worth noting that none of the Housewives involved have denied their involvement either.

On the contrary, this week, fellow cast member Tamra Judge from The Real Housewives of Orange County commented on the news on Instagram: “Looks like a great cast.” Housewife Gina Kirschenheiter, who is also rumoured to be taking part, then seemingly confirmed her involvement by replying with heart emojis.

Why are they filming in Hong Kong?

If the show does go ahead as expected, Hong Kong is certainly a bold location choice to film a destination-based reality show at this point in time. While quarantine is no longer required for inbound travellers, the city is still heavily restricted, with the 0+3 initiative and both indoor and outdoor mask mandates still firmly in place.

Just this week, Hong Kong’s chief executive John Lee dismissed calls to scrap Covid-19 health code arrangements or ease mask-wearing rules.

Under the “0+3” model, overseas arrivals must undergo three days of medical surveillance, during which they are allowed limited movement in the city and must be tested for Covid-19 regularly. Exemptions were made recently for high-powered bankers attending a summit, so it’s likely celebrities like the Real Housewives could enjoy the same perks if the city’s restrictions are still unchanged by January.

The Housewives have real history with Hong Kong

If all goes well, it also won’t be the first time the Real Housewives filmed in Hong Kong. During The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ season seven in 2017, the cast filmed throughout the city’s famous sights.

Will the Real Housewives be back to bring some much-needed showbiz glamour, gossip and drama to the recently “revived” city? It certainly looks like it.