Why has BravoCon been canceled in 2024? Bravolebrities set to return in Las Vegas next year
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: BravoCon for 2024 has been canceled due to reasons not specified in detail by Bravo. However, the network has announced that the fan convention will return in 2025.
BravoCon, initially launched in 2019, quickly became a highly anticipated event for Bravo fans, offering a unique opportunity to interact with their favorite Bravo stars, attend panels, participate in exclusive experiences, and celebrate their passion for Bravo's programming.
The cancellation of BravoCon for 2024 might disappoint fans who were eagerly anticipating the event. On the other hand, the fan convention has been a roaring success for NBCUniversal, setting the stage for unforgettable experiences. At last year's event in Las Vegas' Caesars Forum, the energy was electric as over 27,000 fans flooded in. With 160 Bravo celebrities in attendance and a lineup of more than 60 live events, the convention buzzed with excitement. Brands and Peacock, NBCUniversal's streaming platform, also had a prominent presence, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the gathering. However, Bravo has assured fans now that BravoCon is set to return on November 14-16, 2025, at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas. This move comes after the convention outgrew its previous venues in New York City, prompting the shift to Las Vegas in 2023.
Nonetheless, Bravo will host smaller events called "Watch Party by Bravo" for fans to connect with their favorite Bravo stars. These gatherings will take place in New York City and Los Angeles starting this spring. They'll offer fans the chance to get up close with their favorite Bravo personalities and celebrate their love for the network. More information about these events will be shared in the coming weeks.
What is 'Watch Party by BravoCon'?
"Watch Party by BravoCon" is a series of smaller events hosted by Bravo throughout the year. These gatherings are designed to provide fans, known as "Bravoholics," with the opportunity to connect with their favorite Bravo stars in a more intimate setting.
Unlike the larger BravoCon event, which is held annually and attracts thousands of attendees, "Watch Party by BravoCon" events are more localized and tailored to specific cities, such as New York City and Los Angeles. They offer fans a chance to get up close and personal with Bravo personalities, including stars from popular shows like "The Real Housewives" franchise, "Vanderpump Rules," and "Below Deck."
The "Watch Party" events typically feature a variety of activities, such as meet-and-greets, panel discussions, Q&A sessions, photo opportunities, and exclusive sneak peeks of upcoming Bravo shows. Attendees may also have the chance to participate in themed activities related to their favorite Bravo programs.
How much do Bravolebrities get paid for BravoCon?
According to The Wraps, a BravoCon insider revealed how all Bravolebrities attending the event receive compensation for their appearances, along with coverage for travel, accommodations, and styling. However, a source familiar with talent management for the 2022 event described the fee as "nominal." While talents are compensated for their participation, the amount may not be substantial, reflecting the opportunity for them to engage with fans and promote their brand within the Bravo community.
What is Bravo’s ‘Real Housewives’ lawsuit controversy?
The recent turmoil surrounding Bravo and Andy Cohen has brought to light a series of lawsuits and allegations from former "Real Housewives" stars, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes drama of the network's hit reality franchise.
In January 2024, Caroline Manzo, an original cast member of "The Real Housewives of New Jersey," filed a lawsuit against Bravo, NBCUniversal, Peacock, and Shed Media, alleging mistreatment and discrimination. Manzo claimed that producers facilitated a negative work environment, encouraging excessive alcohol consumption and allowing instances of sexual harassment to occur during filming.
Following Manzo's lawsuit, Brandi Glanville, a former main cast member of "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," threatened to sue Andy Cohen for sexual harassment. Glanville's attorneys accused Cohen of abusing his power as her boss and engaging in inappropriate behavior. Cohen responded, acknowledging the incident but stating that it was intended as a joke.
Later, in late February 2024, Leah McSweeney, a former star of "The Real Housewives of New York City," filed a lawsuit against Bravo, Cohen, and other parties, alleging that they encouraged her to relapse into alcohol consumption for the sake of ratings. McSweeney claims that she faced discrimination and harassment due to her sobriety and mental health conditions.
These lawsuits have sparked conversations about the treatment of reality TV stars and the culture within the Bravo network. Bethenny Frankel, a former "RHONY" star, has been vocal about her concerns regarding the network's practices and has called for better working conditions and pay for reality stars. Additionally, accusations of racism within the network, raised by cast members like Eboni K. Williams and NeNe Leakes, have added to the controversy surrounding Bravo and Andy Cohen.