Melissa Gorga is adding her voice to the growing chorus of “Real Housewives” who are defending Bravo honcho Andy Cohen against Leah McSweeney’s claims that he allegedly offers cocaine to his favorite network stars.
Melissa Gorga is adding her voice to the growing chorus of “Real Housewives” who are defending Bravo honcho Andy Cohen against Leah McSweeney’s claims that he allegedly offers cocaine to his favorite network stars.
“Throughout my 14 years of working with Andy, I have witnessed nothing but respect, kindness and support. I have never been offered any type of drug by him ever,” the “Real Housewives of New Jersey” star, 44, exclusively tells Page Six.
Notably, Gorga has known Cohen, 55, the longest among most Bravolebrities. The “On Display” singer has maintained a full-time spot on “RHONJ” since 2011’s Season 3.
“His leadership style exemplifies authenticity. He prioritizes open communication and he’s very approachable,” she says, reflecting on her professional dynamic with Cohen.
“I am grateful to have had the opportunity to learn and grow under his guidance and share in his success.”
Earlier this week, “Real Housewives of New York City” alum McSweeney, 41, filed a lengthy lawsuit that leveled a myriad of accusations against Cohen and Bravo’s juggernaut franchise at large.
In addition to accusing Cohen of offering hard drugs to certain talent and handing out special professional favors to them, McSweeney claimed that Cohen and Bravo preyed on her alcohol issues in an attempt to generate favorable ratings and even facilitated a work environment that turned a blind eye to sexually predatory behavior.
Cohen has categorically denied the allegations, with a rep for the TV personality previously telling Page Six, “The claims against Andy are completely false.”
Ashley Darby, a longtime cast member of “The Real Housewives of Potomac,” says she has been clubbing in the same vicinity as Cohen — but has never seen him indulge in any illicit substances or provide it to stars hired by Bravo.
For more Page Six reality TV updates…
Listen to our “Virtual Reali-Tea” podcast
Shop our exclusive merch
“I can only speak to how Andy has been with me over these last eight years and even when I’ve seen him out and about. Around Fashion Week a couple of years ago, we were in the same club and I saw nothing of the sort,” she recalls.
“He’s just always been really professional with me and I’ve always felt like he’s treated me equally and fairly. I’ve never experienced this. It really catches me off guard.”
Rachel Fuda, who recently joined “RHONJ” in 2023’s Season 13, tells us that McSweeney’s assessment of the Bravolebrity experience is a far cry from her own.
“I’m new to this whole world, I’ve had a few interactions with Andy and he’s been nothing but professional and kind and I don’t see a correlation of anything of these allegations with his behavior and the way that he has treated me,” she says.
