Kyle Richards Opens Up About Her Marriage Breakup: The Inside Story

Jimmy Henton
Oct 26, 2023
Oct 26, 2023

With grace and elegance, Kyle Richards has shocked the world of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills by announcing that she and her husband, Mauricio Umansky, separated after 27 years of marriage. In a candid chat with Andy Cohen on "Watch What Happens Live," Kyle’s revelation shocked fans and critics alike.

For years, we've followed Kyle’s journey, from her Beverly Hills lifestyle to her family loyalty and unforgettable confrontations. Her honesty exposes the complexities of long-term relationships, even in the seemingly perfect world of Beverly Hills. Kyle's story uncovers the real woman behind the TV persona, reminding us that she's not just a Real Housewife, but a resilient, courageous person.

#1. The Shocking Confession: It All Started With Kyle

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In a reality show known for its jaw-dropping moments, Kyle's admission is nothing short of a bombshell. She confessed that the decision to separate "originated" from her. The Real Housewives star's honesty sheds light on the complexities of long-term relationships and the courage it takes to make such a difficult choice.

“[The split] originated from me,” the “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star told Andy Cohen on “Watch What Happens Live.” She then discussed what it’s been like to navigate such a public breakup.

Although they acknowledged that their marriage was failing, Richards and Umansky addressed rumors that they were divorcing in a joint statement they issued in July.

“Yes, we have had a rough year. The most challenging one of our marriage,” the statement read.

#2. The Impact On Family: From Devastation To Resilience

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The separation news wasn't just a jolt for Kyle and Mauricio but also deeply affected their children. Kyle revealed that when the news first broke, their phones were blowing up, and their kids were in tears, refusing to leave the house. It's a stark reminder that celebrity status doesn't shield anyone from the emotional toll of a public breakup. However, she also shared how her children have grown stronger through this ordeal and become her pillars of support.

“When the news first came out, it was really, really devastating. The whole family,” she said of dealing with online responses to her family’s situation and the rumors that began to flow as a result of the separation news. “Our phones were blowing up. My kids were just crying and wouldn’t leave the house. It was really, really difficult.”

#3. Living Under One Roof: Unconventional Arrangements

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One aspect that's captured the public's imagination is the fact that Kyle and Mauricio are still living in the same house, though in separate rooms. It's an unconventional arrangement, and Kyle graciously granted Mauricio the primary bedroom. This highlights the complexity of modern relationships and the lengths some people go to when trying to maintain an amicable separation.

“But we both love and respect each other tremendously. There has been no wrongdoing on anyone’s part. ... While it may be entertaining to speculate, please do not create false stories to fit a further salacious narrative.”

#4. The Dancing With The Stars Twist: Hurt Feelings And Support

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Lastly, we want to talk about the emotional aspect of the separation, specifically Kyle's reaction to seeing photos of Mauricio holding hands with his "Dancing With the Stars" partner, Emma Slater. Her candid response reveals the raw emotions that accompany such situations. It's a testament to the human side of a reality star who, despite the challenges, still loves and supports her estranged partner in his endeavors.

Richards said her four kids are now more used to the hardships their family has faced.

“[T]hey’re much better and they’re really strong. They’re just so together and so smart. They’ve been my best, best, best friends,” she said. “And I could not be more proud of them. They’re just amazing human beings. Thank God I have them.”

“I was taken aback ... that was very hard to see. I mean, yes, that hurt my feelings,” Richards said. “I don’t know if anything’s happening yet, but obviously there’s something there and I love him very much and we are amicable, but that did hurt me.”