NeNe Leakes has just confirmed her long-awaited return to Bravo in an emotional Instagram video, saying she almost couldn't "believe" it was finally happening.
After a years-long nasty legal battle, NeNe Leakes is stepping back into the Bravo arena, filming the network's new spin-off, "Ultimate Road Trip," which will celebrate the franchise's 20th anniversary.
NeNe Leakes Says The 'Tastiest Peach' Is Back In The 'Real Housewives' Fold
According to a previous report from The Blast, outlets suggested that Leakes had been in talks with Bravo producers about making a return to the "Real Housewives" following her dramatic exit in 2020.
Leakes confirmed the speculation in a nearly four-minute Instagram video, sharing that the long, exhausting journey to getting back in Bravo's good graces has come to an end.
"I am happy, overjoyed to say that I will be returning to Bravo," she said in a video. "I almost can't believe the words that are coming out of my mouth," she added.
NeNe Leakes Thanks Those Who Fought For Her To Return To Bravo After Years Away
Leakes, who joined the series during season 1 in 2008, went on to thank a range of people, from Housewives to Bravo executives, for constantly fighting for her, including Porsha Williams and Phaedra Parks.
The "Real Housewives of Atlanta" legend also thanked the show's executive producer, Andy Cohen, and the chairman of Bravo unscripted, Frances Berwick.
"[I want to thank] so many executives behind the scenes who have worked to make this happen," she added. "So many people that have continued to throw my name in the ring. Thank you to everybody over at Bravo. Thank you to all the people over at Truly Original. Thank you, Shed Media. Thank you to the producers on the ground who are calling and texting me, wanting this to be an amazing thing."
What Show Will NeNe Leakes Be Part Of?
The Blast reported that Leakes will appear on the network's upcoming "Ultimate Road Trip" spin-off, which will celebrate the franchise's 20th anniversary with iconic Housewives from the past.
While Leakes' role on the show hasn't been officially confirmed, other reports state the reality star will not be full-time but will have a "notable" presence when the cast stops in Atlanta, Georgia.
"For two decades, the Real Housewives has amplified women's voices, spotlighted their ambition, humor, and strength, inspiring millions with their unapologetic authenticity," Berwick said about the show. "The Real Housewives: Ultimate Road Trip' is a love letter to the women who turned a reality television show into a cultural phenomenon — and the fans who've been there for every laugh, gasp, toast, and table turn."
Leakes Has Had A Rocky History With Bravo
Despite being one of Bravo's breakout stars, things between Leakes and the network soured after her exit from "RHOA" in 2020. The legendary reality star later filed a discrimination lawsuit against the network in 2022, alleging she experienced racism and a hostile work environment.
"NBC, Bravo and True foster a corporate and workplace culture in which racially-insensitive and inappropriate behavior is tolerated — if not, encouraged," part of the suit read. "As the Black Lives Matter movement swept our nation, Mrs. Leakes — Bravo's historically most successful Black female talent — should have been embraced by NBC, Bravo, and True."
"Instead, NBC, Bravo, and True forced her out of the 'house she built,' denying her a regular role," the lawsuit added.
Leakes' Comeback Has Sent The Bravoverse Into A Frenzy
Thankfully for Bravo fans, Leakes' issues with the network are in the past, as the "Glee" alum captioned her recent Instagram video, "CONFIRMED!"
She added, "The Tastiest Peach Is Back. Tears yall, Tearssssssss."
The comment section was flooded with congratulations and well-wishes for the 58-year-old.
Williams wrote, "I can't wait!! The door is open! 20 years of Housewives is now complete!! Let's celebrate."
Cynthia Bailey added, "The door is back open! Welcome back!"
"Real Housewives" executive producer Carlos King commented, "God is good. Happy for you, my love."
Cohen wrote, "Couldn't celebrate 20 years without you," to which Leakes replied, "Thank you so much for everything. Love you butter cup no matter what."
According to Bravo's "Watch What Happens Live" Instagram account, Cohen will announce the rest of the cast live on January 14 at 10 PM EST.