Kyle Richards, star of the "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," candidly addressed her separation from husband Mauricio Umansky after 27 years, emphasizing it was her decision, during a recent appearance on "Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen."
Richards, 54, who also graced the silver screen with "Halloween Kills," divulged details about the current dynamics of their relationship. "It originated from me, I'll say," she remarked on the timing of the separation announcement after the premiere of "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" Season 13.
Contrary to many high-profile separations, Richards clarified that she and Umansky continue to share the same home, albeit in separate quarters. "I let him stay in the primary bedroom," Richards explained, giving a nod to the room's masculine decor. In contrast, she's taken a space more aligned with her glam tastes.
Discussing the emotional fallout, Richards didn't hold back on the pain the separation news caused within the family. "Our phones were blowing up, our kids were crying and wouldn't leave the house. It was really, really difficult," she confided. However, she expressed immense pride in her children, noting, "They're just so together and so smart. They've been my best, best, best friends."
Reacting to critics alleging the separation was a publicity stunt, Richards emphatically denied the accusation. "What human being would do that to their children? To their family?" she retorted, emphasizing that she cherishes the Bravo show, but would never exploit personal pain for ratings.
Throughout the trials, Richards highlighted the unwavering support she's received from her sisters, Kathy Hilton and Kim Richards. Their consistent message? "We love you and we're here for you."
The conversation took a lighter turn when Cohen broached rumors surrounding Richards' relationship with country singer Morgan Wade. Richards was quick to squash any speculation, laughing off the assumptions and attributing them to Wade's tattooed look. She further emphasized their friendship status by joking about similar unfounded rumors about her and her close friend, Teddi Mellencamp.
Yet, the emotional core of the interview circled back to Mauricio Umansky. Richards confessed her pain upon seeing photographs of him hand-in-hand with his 'DWTS' partner. Although she refrained from accusing them of an affair, the implications were evident, especially when Mellencamp hinted at red flags.
In a final twist, Richards verified that she removed a social media picture of Umansky and his dance partner after witnessing their close bond. Still, she maintained her sporting spirit, stating she voted for them, regardless of personal feelings.
As Richards navigates this new chapter in her life, one thing is clear: she's approaching it with candidness and grace, both in front of the camera and off.
