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LuAnn de Lesseps

Living My Dream

LuAnn reflects on her relationship with Jaques, the release of her hit single, and her favorite moments this season.

June 3, 2010

 

I was very happy with my first live performance of Money Can’t Buy You Class. It wasn’t easy to get up in front of the cameras and perform for some of the most important people my life. It was such a thrill to perform the song in front of a live audience; I was super excited yet nervous at the same time. My producer, Chris Young, did such a fabulous job that night. I loved how he arrived in a stretch Hummer packed with gorgeous women; so rock star!

I wasn’t nervous about introducing Jacques to the group because I knew that they would love him! He’s always charming and gracious to my family and friends. Although keeping Jacques a secret was fun, I wanted him to be a part of my big night and since my family was coming out, I thought it would be the perfect time to introduce him to everyone. My mother liked him and that’s what really counts!

Jacques is a good man and he’s got my back. We share many of the same interests. He makes me very happy and I’m lucky to have him in my life. Also, Jacques is French and very sophisticated, which I love and he is a successful businessman, which I respect.

I was a little disappointed when Alex, Bethenny and Ramona didn’t come out to support me at my CD release party. The girls knew how important this night was to me. They missed all the fun, their loss.

 

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Unwelcome
Unwelcome The Countess weighs in on Jill's St. John surprise. June 3, 2010171 Comments The Real Housewives of New York City Season 3 / Episode 13 / LuAnn de Lesseps

Comments

455 Comments

Luann where did you meet Jaques? LOVE HIM!

Dear Countess,
I think you do a fine job raising the kids. Not sure what mistake your daughter may have made, however it is something that she has to live with. As parents we can only hope they learn from our mistakes. Best wishes for you and the family. You are a beautiful spirit and out of all the cast you truly are the one that I tune in to see. Looking forward to seeing your new look and wonderful outfits.

Countess:

You showed true class (not to mention good parenting) when you refused to allow your daughter's issues to be broadcast. Anyone who believes the are above such issues should watch out for stones. Each and every person (whether they know it or not) lucky enough to have been given this amazing gift we call children, have also had times which our children behave in ways counter to the things we have taught by both word and deed. Unfortunately, when your child rebelled someone decided to make a name for themselves on the back of your daughter, that is another outrage that your family must deal with, and I am sorry for you.

I did not see the video, and would not seek it out, as this type of nonsense is not conducive to anything except begetting more of the same. I do wonder in what context the slur was, however, not to excuse (as one can never excuse) the language, but sometimes when my college age children are listening to music, I am shocked at the inappropriate language the spout (going so far as to take their CD's and break them, or delete music.

My best wishes are with you, I have experienced such bumps, non-publicly and know how heartbreaking they are, I can't even imagine how difficult they are for you in this venue. I will say, that although it may feel like disaster (for you and your Victoria) there is always redemption, when my daughter used this particular epitaph, I had her work volunteer in a predominately black neighborhood, so (sticking myself where I do not belong) might I suggest a little foray punishment, working with crack addicted babies, and volunteering in a predominately black homeless shelter, I am aware of your good works, maybe your daughter needs a little touch of your humility.

Good luck, and please always remember to reassure your daughter there is always a tomorrow to turn to, my niece forgot this for a brief moment, last year at Victoria's age, and it ended it in a tragedy we will never recover from, which is what prompted me to write this.

To paraphrase Margaret Thatcher if you have to tell people you are classy then you are not. Classy people do not judge and belittle others which you did over and over. Classy people do not stir the pot and stand back with a smirk on their face and then claim innocence in that passive agressive way you have. Classy people do not stick their noses in other people's businesss and take pot shots at people which you love to do. You are not classy, you have never been classy. You bought into your own Countess hype. You really need to get over yourself and learn a lesson from Alex who is the only way who displayed true class (though I do love Ramona and Bethany)

Countess....really? If Jesus can be called by his first name so can you.

Luann,
I was your biggest fan. The first season I thought you were so classy. However this season I don't know whats going on. You seem so full of yourself. If you think you are so mcuh better than the rest of the ladies then why do the show? I'm kinda turned off from the NYers. HOnestly between your ego and Kelly's lack of intelligence...not worth watching anymore.

Lu Ann,
You are class, inside and out.
No on can compare to you.
You hold your title well...

Reading some of the posts here I feel compelled to speak up in defense of the Countess de Lesseps. Yes, you do not ever introduce anyone, and I mean ANYONE by their first name to your driver. It is unheard of and vulgar. She can tell her own driver to call her by her first name, although no driver in their right mind would ever do so. But very much appreciating the kind gesture. And it does not matter if she acquired the title by marriage or was born into it. And if the poster were a doctor how would he or she like to be introduced to someone's driver by the first name? Titles are very much alive in 2010. Just because the poster is American does not mean that here or anywhere else in the world people aren't addressed by their aristocratic titles. Can you imagine if the President of the United States were to address the Queen of England by Elizabeth in public? Come on, you know better than that.
On being called a countess, yes, it is 2010 but there are thousands upon thousands of counts and countesses all over Europe and each and everyone is and will be addressed by title. Even the paparazzi do so.
Perhaps somehow it was a good thing a countess went on a reality show. There is much to be learned in this country about correct etiquette.
I'll take a classy, poor aristocrat any day over a vulgar, wealthy person.

Countess de Lesseps, you are a beautiful lady. I don't watch much television but became curious when I saw blogs and photos of you and watched the entire seasons of Housewives of NYC all at once, movie-like, over the course of two weeks. You are absolutely gorgeous! I love American Indians and you are a most beautiful and classy squaw, if I may take the liberty to say so. I am convinced that this is part of why your ex-husband, was attracted to you: your beauty and your native American heritage.
Thank you for writing a book on etiquette. There cannot be enough books written about this subject. Money truly cannot buy anyone class! I am originally from Europe and even though I call today's Europe Sodom and Gomorrah due to the excessive exhibitionism, Europeans have an inborn or learned sense when it comes to etiquette. Sadly, not so in this country. Here, it seems to be almost "cool" to behave badly at a dinner table, for instance. "Cool," to scream at the top of your voice in the middle of a social gathering.
I am always wondering if your ex-husband may have left you because you've joined this reality show. Most aristocracy simply prefers to stay in the background, not displaying themselves in their private moments for the whole world to watch. And you know that infidelity, for the most part by the male, sadly is part of a traditional aristocratic marriage. Has been so throughout history.
I am very sorry that your marriage ended so publicly. It must have been traumatic for you. Had I been you, however, I would have not told anyone how exactly it ended (by email, etc.)
Your children are also gorgeous. I love watching your daughter at the races. Sadly, the show does not give us enough footage of her racing horses.
I am wishing you the best with your new man, Jacques! And please, continue being a true lady. I just love watching you. And also, I agree with your statement that we women have become way too equal to the men to the point where it becomes unhealthy in a traditional marriage. Yes, I am a little bit old-fashioned in that sense, but today's women are stripping men of their power. And men need power. Not the abusive kind. The respectful one.

LuAnn, I like you. You are nice, non confrontational and fair, but that being said, many viewers will not appreciate these traits, they only want to see the "bitch" or the "victim". Hang in there...

i don't know why you keep on insisting everyone to call you countess. it's 2010, and you're divorced from the count.
you preach but you never practice what you preach. class isn't about the right fork for eating your salad, it's about how you deal with people, how you respect people and their issues and not stirring the pot when you're not even involved in the stew. you need to have that stick up in your behind surgically removed.

I am sorry you had to go through a divorce but glad that it took away some of your snobbiness. It seems to have brought you back to earth. Now be done with the countess title and join us common folk. You are not better than anyone and this season pointed that out better than anything. Sonja is a joy. She is happy and classy. She is a great addition to the show. She was okay with walking around the dog poo but you weren't. Your stuck up attitude was showing.

this is kind of random but my family loves real housewives of NY and since the shows over we've started watching work of art next great artist. and i one of the real housewives eppisodes you invite your neice nicole, is that the same nicole from work of art??? thanks so much.

LuAnn,

You are a very special character! You've remained above the fray with dignity and calm. Good for you. Although you say that you had added responsibilities from your split, your former husband was away much of the time due to work. Therefore, "running the household alone" was something you already had done. What you probably discovered, was that you could handle everything on your own. I wish you all the best to you and your family. Enjoy your new adventures - whereever they may lead you!

LuAnn, you are one of the Housewives I like and respect the most. Your commitment to your charity work is an inspiration to any person who wants to help those less fortunate. You don't just lend your name to a charity like some of the other wives. You "get your hands dirty" and actually go to the organizations like Habitat For Humanity and work hard with the people who need guidance and moral support. Keep up the great work. I'm sure you're making a significant difference in the lives of those who need your help!

Dear LuAnn,
If you and Jacques ever got married I doubt very much that the wedding would include jumping into fountains, and peeing into a bucket. That is not what cultured people do. I always tell my children that if you lie down with dogs, you will get fleas. You share a lot, and yet maintain your dignity. Under the word "lady" in the dictionary there should be a pic of you. Thank you for showing ones that care how to behave better and improve their life.

ps Don't get fleas.

I actually was a fan of this you...until they limo scene...and how you wanted the driver to call you mrs...WHAT??? Hello this is 2010 that the?? Betheeny said it right "get over yourself" Really...unbelievable.

Dear LuAnn,
I was thinking that you should launch a high end wine line. You and Jacques could travel the world to make the selections. Now something like this could make a great show. I did pay for my daughter Liz to attend wine tasting classes in NYC. She loved the opportunity to learn more about wines and now makes great selections when out dining. As a huge fan of yours I would love to be able to buy something like Countess LuAnn wines for gifts for my dearest friends. Great wine like great friends is always appreciated and only gets better as it ages.

Dear LuAnn,
perhaps you can hire Shawn the event planner to do something elegant for you. He is hilarious! I know that you would not ask him to get you a "pee bucket". Really darling, you are tops and I am sure Shawn would work his magic for you and your guests. He was really degraded on the last show, I just want him to work for someone as classy as you. He needs to get his reputation back after all the abuse he put up. Being associated with you will bring him up in the world.

For all the people posting about LuAnn saying that the count didn't like Jews, I thought it was a great way to get back at that lying, deceitful ex.

I laughed at thinking how outraged he must have been when he heard about it.

Love you, Countess.

LuAnn,

Love your style. You are a true classic beauty. I understand why you side with Jill on some issues. It's a shame that Ramona & Bethanny did not show you any support when you needed it. Instead, they tried to belittle you and make fun of you. Keep your head high, proud of Jill for being there when you needed her. She always helps out & when they get what they want out of her, they thrash her. No more apologies, Jill. Keep your chin up.

Dear Countess LuAnn,
Congratulations on being able to live your dream. I absolutely love" Money Can't Buy You Class" as well as Class With The Countess. What I like most about your book is the variety and abundance of information you share with your readers. Thank you for sharing your inspiring life story as well I enjoyed this book so very much.
I would also like to say that you are a real asset to Real Housewives of New York and the Bravo network is extremely fortunate to have you in its midst. You know, I think that you would do extremely well with a show of your own on Bravo.
Countess, one thing that saddens me is some of the negative and unkind comments that some individuals have to say about you. People are entitled to their opinions but the mean spirited manner in which it is delivered is questionable at best.
Please keep on keeping on as you are awesome.
Thanks again for your music and your book!
The very best to you and those you love in the future.

Margaret Brown,
Alexandria,VA

I agree that women should be more supportive of one another. I'm just not sure that you believe that concept. You seem to stir the pot in everyone's kitchen with a very long spoon to stay just out of reach of the stove. Well, in some instances you were the stove.

I recently saw the episode where you gave betheny a hard time for introducing you to the driver as Luann and you refused to shake his hand. THAT WAS CLASSLESS.

I find it ironic that you said the count would be appalled, but doesn't the count manage a microfinance firm - supposedly working for the world's poor, but he wouldn't want to be in the same company with the world's middle class. Again, CLASSLESS.

luann i'm from cleveland i really think you should sing your song money cant buy you class to lebron =)

I think u are an amazing woman and very insperational and I believe that anyone, such as donna51 and any of the other mean spirited people and their comments should keep those opinions to themselves until they are as successful as you. Keep up the good work and I'm excited to see what else is in store for you!! Take care! Brent

LuAnn, I suggest you move over to another show. You do not add anything and I do mean anything to the show. I hope you decide to leave the show.

luann do you know where the suez canal is?

Sheriharris loved your comments about the countess,you go girl! Luanne you mentioned on an episode that you were native American,what tribe?I am native American,French and Scotish Irish.I love to watch the show to see what you and Jill are wearing of your accessories,handbags and your shoes. Jill made a comment about how beautiful your dresses are and I agree with her. Don't let Ramona's negative comments about your dresses put you down cause you look lovely. I don't like what Ramona wears and she wears the same necklace very episode. I love you turquiose jewerly you wear. I am so glad you have a friendship with Jill!Jill and Luanne's show would rock!

You are so beautiful and elegant. Have you considered reviving your modeling career?

LuAnn,

I don't believe you like Kelly. You were not supported of her. I have never seen Kelly throwing you under the bus. Be true to yourself.

Good manners is more than just about knowing which fork to use. Not my quote, but appropriate in your situation.

I liked you up until I saw the episode where you asked Bethenny to introduce you to the driver as "Mrs." To quote Bethenny, "Get over yourself."

To the viewer Dee who said Jason does not have culture is so wrong.He's a smart good looking caring man who has a great sense of humor and a family who are down to earth and love each other. You sound like a snob...maybe you should go after the cultured count who was so classless that he dumped Luann via E mail! Good luck Lu Ann with Jacques, but take life slowly....you're young and you have to think of your kids ! I hope Bethenny realizes what a gem she has in Jason and doesn't screw this wonderful relationship up!

Good luck with the singing career. Enjoy your new life and stay humble and sweet to everyone. You are a nice woman, your children are adorable, well mannered, sweet and humble.
Sometimes I think you try to hard to be something you are not. I think you are a very down to earth person...so drop the countess thing... You will be doing everyone a favor but doing yourself a big favor. Then leave your hair down and be the lovely LuAnne that you are. Glad you have a new man in your life. He is lovely.

I could not believe how the "proper Countess" commented at the reunion show when kelly talked about her kelaid... Louanne said "oh like a margarita, but a mexican margarita?" DUUUUHHHHH MARGARITAS ARE MEXICAN COUNTESS!

Darling:

no more one strap dresses/shirts etc it's driving me crazy.

I have to tell you that Jacque looks just like David Schwimmer!!

Luann,
Everything in life is what we make it. I tend to be on fence with you because I don't see you really showing your true colors. I think at first I didn't really like you becuase I saw someone who thought they were superior, you wanted to really show people who you were or rather who your husband was. Now that he is gone, I think you are becoming more of a relatable person. I am proud of you for your single. I agree women should be more supportive of one another. I just hope to see you florish in the next season and I hope we see more of you on dates, house shopping, and being a little less snooty. I think that everything is coming full circle and you could come out on top.

Luann,Hello
I like you on the show now I must say we all have our faults and you have certainly have said a few things that I believe that were out of your Character,
I love the way you carry yourself,you don't try to be something that you are not,you are FAB.
Much love to you take care.
Oh yeah Countess I'm a black girl and love that damn song,still walking around driving my family crazy
much success in anything you shall do!Kandie J

I liked you in the beginning but now no so much. It seems like now everything was for show because now you don't have a husband when in the beginng you did. I don't understand how your marrage seem so great and now it's over. It was a big dissappointment this season.

LuAnn, It was a WONDERFUL surprise to see you on Royal Pains! Your appearance was a nice surprise! I hope you return to the Real Housewives of NY next season! I LOVE LOVE the show!

Dear LuAnn,
I would love to see the LuAnn show, rather than Bettenny is getting married one. What is so interesting about being eight months pregant, urinating in public, swearing, and starting another marriage at age 39? Lets face it darling, Jason does not seem to have culture. Your show would be better because it would show a cultured woman tackling life in NYC and the Hamptons. I prefer your mega star life, not loser Bethenny's life. Quite frankly girlfriend the Four Seasons has to be slipping to allow that "wedding " to occur there. lol
ps Don't have some guy picking out your underwear...you Countess are regal and better than that ! The fans with class like me love you. I do think you should make a French version of your song...Oh..la....la...Darling!!

Luann

This season was one disaster after another. I could not believe how some of the ladies acted. You kept your cool in a very difficult time. I wish you much luck and plenty of love for the future.

Dear LuAnn,
you inspire all of us to be better.Being able to speak French shows that you are intelligent and interested in other cultures. My daughter minored in French and uses it frequently in NYC and traveling.I can see why Jacques is so appealing to you. The French language is so lovely. Hope you two travel to the French countryside together.

LuAnn, you look so amazing in your video! Whatever you did there do it in real life because you're beautiful!

I love your song!!and am glad life is treating you well now. With that said, I was disappointed that you judged Jill when the discussion came up about the cell phone on speaker. YOU are guilty too. You encouraged her to do that when speaking with Bethenny and even wanted her to lie and tell Bethenny no one was with her. You owe Jill an apology as you keep claiming you are her friend. Jill took too many hits on the reunion show and Bethenny is the one that finally defended her, not you. Live what you preach, lady.

Dear LuAnn,
I love it when you go to the fashion events. What I enjoy about the show is living vicariously through you and the ladies. My daughter Liz lives in NYC and I do enjoy hearing about all the action things going on all the time.As women we need to share, and you bring a lot of fun to fans everytime you are on camera. I find myself laughing a lot and wishing I was there to laugh with you.Keep smiling and living your great life.

LuAnn, do you ever have an opinion of your own? You are constantly agreeing with everyone, it's like you have twenty faces, one for each scenerial. Take stand and stop being a coward.

First of all you did take sides (jill's) all season long whether you want to admit it or not. Your comment about your ex being surprised you are dating a Jewish person made me think he would only be surprised because he knew how you really feel about them or you agree with how he thinks. You need to get thicker skin and stop taking offense at every comment some one makes to you because you can also be quite rude in what you say to others. You will insult someone and then laugh like you didn't really mean it when we can all see that you did. I think you egged Jill on all seaso and you are a mean girl like her. You try to act like you have class but you really don't have it. I wasn't that impressed with the singing but good for you for trying. I'm sorry about your divorce having been through one myself a long time ago but you will find someone who will make you even happier. Now as far as your friendship with Jill and Kelly, what are you thinking. Can you not see what is in front of your face? There is something seriously wrong with Kelly she needs help but unfortunately she will never see than and it is sad. You don't need that craziness in your life. I think Jill is worse though because she us not crazy she is just plain hatefull and you really don't need that. Just remember you can tell what a person is really like by the company they keep. Good luck with your life

Hey, LuAnn! It would totally rock if you, Sonja, Kelly, and Jill had a show together. You four are the heart, soul, spirit, and entertainment of the series. It would be fun if you four did, like, a road-trip together, partied around NY, did some charity events, and even cut a single together. Ramona's goofy, Alex is kinda dull, and Bethenny is completely self-absorbed. Love ya!!!!

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