Bethenny Frankel on Luann de Lesseps' Return to Rehab: "It's a Brave and Honest Decision by Her"
The Real Housewives of New York City mogul shares an update on how her friend is doing during her treatment.
Following Luann de Lesseps' recent return to rehab, Bethenny Frankel opened up to PEOPLE about her friend's decision to seek help and how she is doing today.
Luann has authorized Bethenny to speak on her behalf, according to PEOPLE. “This weekend, Luann was surrounded by her girlfriends and decided — with their support — that in light of recent circumstances, it is the healthiest choice for her not to attend Tuesday’s reunion taping so that she can continue in her healing process,” Bethenny told PEOPLE. “Luann is now surrounded by a core group of people who truly have her best interests at heart and who are working to make sure she gets the help she needs.”
Bethenny also shared, “Recent additional family stress was a catalyst to her taking a break."
The RHONY mogul praised Luann for getting the help she needs. "Bravo has been very supportive of Luann during this time," she said. "It’s a brave and honest decision by her, and everyone is rallying around her and wants the best for her.”
A Bravo spokesperson shared this statement on Luann's return to rehab: “Bravo supports Luann’s decision to focus on her health. She is part of the Bravo family and we continue to stand by her as she copes with this challenging situation. At this time, we hope everyone will respect her privacy.”
Luann previously spent 21 days at an alcohol treatment center in January following her arrest on charges of battery on an officer, disorderly intoxication, resisting arrest with violence, and crimes against a person in Palm Beach on December 24, 2017. She has since agreed to enter a plea to a lesser misdemeanor charge. Luann is expected to plead guilty in absentia, and the adjudication will be withheld at her next court date on July 25.
