Bethenny Frankel Quits Real Housewives Of New York City

One of the original Real Housewives of New York City is saying goodbye to the Big Apple: Bethenny Frankel is exiting the Bravo reality series, according to our sister site Variety.

"I have decided to leave the Housewives franchise to explore my next chapter," Frankel said in a statement. "It's time to move on and focus on my daughter, my philanthropy and my production partnership with Mark Burnett, producing and starring in shows which represent a shift in the conversation for women. With the changes in modern culture, I want to highlight the strength, confidence and unstoppable power that women have. My experience at Bravo has been an incredibly magical ride. I am so grateful to them for highlighting my entrepreneurialism and allowing me to pave the way for many women to achieve their goals. I am excited for my future. The best is yet to come." (Bravo has not confirmed Frankel's exit at this time.)

Frankel was a Real Housewives cast member when the New York City edition debuted in 2008, but took an extended hiatus following Season 3, returning for Season 7 in 2015. (She's also starred in Bravo spinoffs Bethenny Ever After and Bethenny & Frederik.) Her departure leaves Ramona Singer and LuAnn de Lesseps as the only original Real Housewives of New York City stars still on the show.