The Real Housewives franchise presents a glossy portrayal of wealth and luxury, but behind the scenes many of the housewives face significant financial struggles. They regularly spend tens of thousands on extravagances but then declare bankruptcy or lose their multi-million dollar homes to foreclosure. While the show aims to offer an authentic view of their lives, it often obscures domestic troubles like abuse, mental health issues, and divorces that have left some housewives with only a fraction of their former wealth and status.