A Real Housewife commented on my Linkedin post

Community is everywhere. It’s culture-forming.

Whether you’re going down the rabbit hole of juicy mechanical keyboard ASMR, or perhaps you’ve found yourself in the niche-est of niche subreddit, there’s a community for anything.

Working in community management, I can’t help but think often about the communities that are part of our everyday culture. Communities that have become central figures of internet culture, meme culture, and everyday discussion.

Cue The Real Housewives.

Never have I seen a more loyal and engaged fanbase than that of The Real Housewives.

Let’s face it; it is a cultural phenomenon. I can’t scroll on the internet without seeing a meme, a soundbite, a moment in time, a catch phrase, a drama-filled dinner party, anything related to The Real Housewives. It’s fascinating how this franchise has dominated popular culture.

About a month ago, I posted this on Linkedin. Didn’t really think much of it, but what I did know is that there is probably no fandom on this planet like the one centered around The Real Housewives. That fanbase is loyal. And probably one of the most engaged on the internet.

Fast forward to last week, and the following comment is shared on my post:

I’m familiar with some stars from the RH universe, but Panthea I wasn’t familiar with. I didn’t even know there was a London franchise. Nonetheless, it took me by surprise.

Kinda cool (and somewhat funny) that 1. this post reached her and 2. that she chimed in. So naturally, I had to reply:

It’s wild how much of an impact the RH universe has had on culture. And it will continue. The fandom is dedicated and consistent. While I never expected Linkedin to cross over with Real Housewives, here we are. Worlds colliding.

Someone needs to do a formal study on The Real Housewives fandom. It’s an ecosystem of media that someone needs to do some deep research on. There’s cultural significance, participatory fandom, sociological layers, performance, and so much more.

Is there a community you can’t stop thinking about — one that feels like its own universe?

Thanks for reading and for being here. I don’t take for granted that you care what I have to say. Or even if you don’t care, and you’re still here; thanks for being a fan anyway. ❣️

Let’s connect!