"The Real Housewives of New York City" is dealing with record-low ratings, and many fans are pointing to new cast member Eboni K. Williams as the reason. Eboni argues that the producers are to blame for what airs, as they make the final decision as to what sees the light of day and what ends up on the cutting room floor.
The ways many fans see it, the "Housewives" should be playful, fun and even chaotic, and Bravo junkies, at least according to social media, believe that Eboni is making the show too serious with her heavy storylines and opinions. Throughout the season the former "Fox News" host has constantly brought up racial issues, to a point where viewers have found it unnatural and unnecessarily combative at times.
While fans can point fingers all day long, it's clear that something isn't working. The Daily Mail reported that the April 6 episode of "RHONY" garnered 764,000 live viewers, making it the show's lowest-rated episode ever.
Although social media has issues with different cast members, Eboni is clearly the primary scapegoat.
"Eboni is bringing this show down @Andy. I want to watch shows that are lighthearted. This is too deep and I think that's why ratings are down," one person tweeted at executive producer Andy Cohen. "Bring back FUN!!!"
Another said, "Not my problem ratings dropped because of you Eboni! Not watching any more!"
TMZ reported, "There's clearly a rift growing, as Eboni says she feels demonized by some of the 'Housewives' and some viewers."
Interestingly, the reality show has delved into heavy topics before, including mental health, alcoholism, bankruptcy and divorce. Because of this, Eboni tells TMZ that race-related conversations fit within the boundaries.
To be fair, Eboni has her supporters, many of whom believe she's actually highlighting real world problems.
"Gotta love when ratings fall because real life issues are too much for reality tv," one person said. "The season isn't great, but it's because most of the cast is stale, with fake friendships, and no storyline. At least Eboni brings something to the show."
Another added, "I swear the low ratings are because they don't like the fact that eboni is schooling them ladies on racism."