Variety dropped its annual list of the most influential women in reality TV, and some of our favorite Black women powerhouses are leading the pack. These queens give us all the drama, laughs, and iconic moments we can’t stop watching.
Phaedra Parks, Gizelle Bryant, and Garcelle Beauvais all made Variety’s cut, securing their spots as reality TV royalty. According to the publication, these are the women they “can’t keep [their] eyes off.“We couldn’t agree more. These ladies – and many others – have been running the reality TV game. This year proved how much Black women are “taking control” of the genre.But let’s talk about the undeniable queen of staying in her reality TV bag: Phaedra Parks.
RELATED: Why Is Phaedra Parks On Married To Medicine?
Phaedra Parks: The Ultimate Reality TV Bag Securer
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If there’s one thing Phaedra is going to do, it’s secure the bag—and leave us gagged while doing it. This year, she had all of us talking as she made her major return to the screen.Phaedra didn’t just stick to one show—she was on three.After dominating The Traitors, Phaedra had fans screaming when she popped up on Bravo’s Married to Medicine in September 2023. Her entrance surprised some because Phaedra isn’t a doctor (or married to one), but the Georgia Peach remained unbothered.She’s appeared in two seasons of M2M must-watch moments. Phaedra has also reportedly taken credit for reviving the show’s popularity. If that wasn’t enough, Phaedra started filming Season 16 of The Real Housewives of Atlanta and recently wrapped Dancing With the Stars.
Phaedra uses every TV moment as a chance to serve, not letting any camera time go to waste. Her outfits are always giving. From designer gowns to jaw-dropping confessional looks, she never misses a beat.Petite with curves for days, Phaedra knows how to dress her body and always shows up in looks that slay. Her glam team also deserves their own reality TV award because they have worked overtime this year.Whether the funeral director is rocking an icy blonde lace front, cinnamon bangs, or romantic curls, her hair always eats. And her makeup matches with bombshell beats.Phaedra’s looks are so good that half the fun of watching her is seeing what she will wear next.
Gallery: Black Women Are Running Reality TV
Black women are the blueprint for reality TV. From bringing the drama to setting the trends, their influence is unmatched—and Variety’s list is further proof of this.Phaedra may be the queen of staying booked and slaying, but she’s far from the only one holding it down. Check out our gallery of all the ladies on Variety’s 2024 list. Scroll to see if your faves made the cut!
1. Garcelle Beauvais
Garcelle Beauvais continues to reign as the epitome of poise, style, and grace on her fifth season of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Known for keeping her cool amid the chaos, she navigates the drama with ease, stirring the pot just enough to keep things interesting while maintaining her dignity. A veteran actress best remembered for her role on The Jamie Foxx Show, Garcelle has skillfully used her platform to expand her influence, leveraging her relationships in the industry to secure opportunities behind the camera.
2. Marissa George
We’ve all been where Marissa George was – especially those of us looking for love! During Season 7 of Love is Blind, Marissa opened up about her military background and her feelings on birth control. Sis was all in – despite the non-traditional coupling.
Unfortuantely, Marissa’s journey took a heartbreaking turn when she was blindsided by a breakup just days before the wedding. We still stan for Marissa!
3. Gizelle Bryant
After a brief hiatus, The Real Housewives of Potomac is back, with Gizelle Bryant bringing the shade and glamour to revive the show’s iconic status. Fans can’t get enough of her bombshell blonde looks and fiery clashes with other castmates, keeping the drama alive.
4. Guerdy Abraira
Throughout Season 6 of her housewives Miami reality show, Guerdy Abraira faced the unimaginable: a breast cancer diagnosis. Instead of stepping back, she used the platform to share her journey in an authentic and powerful way, raising awareness about breast cancer treatment options. The stunning star has inspired countless viewers by turning her personal struggle into a message of hope and resilience. These actions in themselves are powerful!
5. Dr. Simone Whitmore
Dr. Simone Whitmore is a Married to Medicine OG. She is now a shining star in the Season 11, using her platform to talk about the nation’s take on abortion. Dr. Simone does not play about her love for women’s health or personal decision making. She continues to be an example of Black women doing it all – and speaking for others in the Peach State.
6. Alison Hammond
Since joining The Great British Baking Show in 2023, Alison Hammond has won audiences over with her warmth, authenticity, and charm. She is truly a global star with an eye-catching smile.
Building on her success, she’s now hosting For the Love of Dogs.
