Riley Burruss Defends Herself Against Racial Microaggressions
Riley Burruss is finding her voice and speaking out about stereotypes in a powerful moment on Bravo’s Next Gen NYC. The drama unfolded in episode three, which aired June 17, when the cast took a sprinter van ride to Gia Giudice’s house in New Jersey for a get-together. Things took a turn when co-star Charlie Zakkour confronted Riley in front of the group, accusing her of being “scary” and “accosting” his girlfriend, Alex.
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According to Charlie, Riley had been rude by not properly introducing herself. But in a flashback of the moment in question, Riley is clearly heard greeting Alex and saying, “Nice to meet you.” She even joked, “I love when my friend’s girls ask my name. I’m his friend, you should be nice.” Still, Charlie doubled down on his criticism, exaggerating his gestures and mimicking her tone—behavior that visibly upset Riley.
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Fighting back tears, Riley explained why the interaction felt deeper than a simple misunderstanding. “I’m just so mad,” she said, her voice cracking. “I don’t like that y’all are trying to spin this narrative that I’m like this scary Black girl when I’m not.”
After arriving at the party, Riley stepped aside and called her mom, Real Housewives of Atlanta alum Kandi Burruss, to vent. Kandi, ever the protective mother, quickly affirmed her daughter’s feelings. “I’m glad that you let him know. I don’t think it’s cool,” Kandi told her. “It just frustrates me to hear that, because as a Black woman, you’re the minority and it’s okay. You’re not afraid to speak up for yourself, which you should not be.”
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Throughout the emotional scene, cast mate Brooks stayed by Riley’s side, offering quiet support. Meanwhile, Charlie grew visibly uncomfortable as the conversation shifted to the topic of racial microaggressions. But Riley didn’t back down—she stood firm in her truth.
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The moment quickly gained traction on social media, with fans rallying behind Riley and calling out Charlie for reinforcing harmful stereotypes. Many praised Riley for staying composed and honest during such a sensitive exchange. “She handled it with grace,” one viewer posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Team Riley all the way.”
It’s not the first time reality TV has tackled issues of race and perception, but this instance hit home for many viewers who have experienced similar treatment in their own lives. Riley’s willingness to speak up—especially on a national platform—resonated far beyond the show’s typical drama.
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Riley Burruss Defends Herself Against Racial Microaggressions was originally published on rickeysmileymorningshow.com
