What Happened Between Yolanda Hadid and Lisa Rinna?
Feuds are an integral part of the “Real Housewives” franchise, and the ongoing conflict between Lisa Rinna and Yolanda Hadid is no exception. But where did this particular drama between the two begin? Let’s take a closer look.
Lisa Rinna has never been one to shy away from clashes with her co-stars. She had a well-known feud with Kim Richards, which lasted for years and involved memorable moments like glasses being thrown in Amsterdam. Another notable incident involved baby shower bunnies being returned during reunion episodes, with Richards stating that she didn’t feel the right energy behind the gift. Rinna has also had conflicts with her friend Denise Richards, and most recently, she has found a sparring partner in Kathy Hilton, which has drawn criticism from all sides.
Given all the current drama surrounding Rinna, her longstanding tension with Hadid may seem like old news. However, the feud recently made headlines again, prompting us to question what initially sparked their animosity.
The answer can be summed up in one word: Munchausen’s. Yolanda Hadid publicly revealed her Lyme disease diagnosis on Twitter in 2012, stating her need to start treatment for the tick-borne illness. Despite her health struggles, she decided to continue appearing on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” for three seasons. In an interview with ET, she admitted that she initially believed she would get better and didn’t realize Lyme disease would become a lifelong battle.
Hadid’s time on the show delved into her battle with Lyme disease, particularly in later seasons. It was during Season 6 that Lisa Rinna, a relative newcomer, brought up rumors she had heard in Malibu about Hadid’s illness or the perceived lack thereof. Rinna discussed this with Kyle Richards and Lisa Vanderpump, questioning whether Munchausen’s syndrome could be at play. Munchausen’s syndrome involves individuals pretending to have an illness to garner attention, sympathy, or reassurance, as reported by Bravo.
The response from their co-stars was mixed. Richards acknowledged hearing discussions about Hadid’s illness but felt that Rinna’s line of questioning took it to another level. She expressed concern about how Hadid would react upon hearing about the conversation. And indeed, when Hadid found out, she was far from pleased.
Hadid retaliated vehemently against Rinna, and the rift between them has yet to fully heal. In a heated confrontation at Erika Jayne’s barbecue, Hadid chastised Rinna for bringing up the suggestion of Munchausen’s syndrome in such a public manner. She expressed her dissatisfaction with Rinna’s behavior from the previous season, stating that she had labeled Kim Richards and Brandi, and now she was labeling her. Although Rinna claimed during the exchange that she had no doubts about Hadid’s genuine health issues, the damage was done. Even years later, Hadid maintains her belief that Rinna consistently targets someone every season. Speaking to ET about Rinna’s recent feud with Kathy Hilton, Hadid expressed empathy for Hilton and the toll the conflicts can take on one’s family. She questioned the motives behind seeking camera time at the expense of others.
As for Rinna, she has shared in previous interviews that she learned valuable lessons from the experience. She considered leaving the show because of the drama but ultimately decided to stay. Six seasons later, she remains a provocateur on the show, stirring the pot and keeping the conflicts alive.
The feud between Yolanda Hadid and Lisa Rinna serves as a reminder of the intense dynamics within the “Real Housewives” franchise. It’s a testament to the enduring power of conflicts that can shape the relationships and narratives of the show’s cast members.