Andy Cohen is responding to Liz McGraw quitting RHORI after one season
The RHORI star announced her exit on Instagram on July 1, revealing that she has decided not to return as filming for Season 2 begins.
“I am full of gratitude for the amazing opportunity to appear on this show,” Liz wrote. “As filming for season 2 begins, I have made the decision to take a step back and focus on my family, my work and my passions.”
Liz’s departure comes after an intense first season that saw her involved in several major cast conflicts, including drama with Alicia Carmody and Jo-Ellen Tiberi. However, Liz made it clear that her decision to leave was not because of the women.
“The RHORI cast is an amazing is an amazing group of women who have created something special,” Liz continued. “I’ll be watching next season and rooting for the continued success of this franchise.”
Liz ended her announcement by saying she is ready to enjoy Rhode Island without cameras following her every move.
“For now, I look forward to enjoying this little corner of the world from the other side of the camera,” she wrote.
While many fans were disappointed by the news, Andy Cohen quickly reacted in the comments and suggested Liz could always return.
“The door is always open,” Andy replied. “Just sayin’!”
Andy’s comment immediately got fans talking, especially because Liz was one of the most talked-about RHORI cast members during Season 1. Whether viewers loved her, disagreed with her or wanted more from her storyline, Liz definitely made an impact.
The self-professed “Cannabis Queen” had a rocky first season as her friendships with several women shifted throughout filming. Her feud with Alicia became one of the show’s biggest storylines after Alicia accused Liz of minimizing her childhood experience, while Liz insisted she was trying to explain her perspective and did not want things to spiral.
Liz also had tension with Jo-Ellen, though Jo-Ellen recently told Boston Magazine that their conflict was real and emotional, while also defending Liz amid online backlash.
“That was a real beef—that was a really sad one,” Jo-Ellen said. “I was really, really upset for several days.”
Jo-Ellen also added, “I love Liz, and I care about her, so I’ll always be there even if I’m not her best friend.”
Tamra Judge also reacted to Liz’s exit, echoing what many fans were saying in the comments.
“You will be so missed. Hope to see you return one day!” Tamra wrote.
Liz’s exit marks the first major cast change for RHORI as the franchise heads into its second season. The show quickly became a Bravo talking point thanks to its strong personalities, real friendships and old-school Housewives energy.
With filming for Season 2 beginning, fans will now be watching to see how the group dynamic shifts without Liz in the mix.