Luann de Lesseps, star of one of the most successful franchises in television history, The Real Housewives of New York, will ring in the Holiday Season with her brand-new cabaret show, “A Very Countess Christmas.” The show will be helmed by popular Director, Richard Jay-Alexander (Barbra Streisand, Kristin Chenoweth, Bernadette Peters, Bette Midler, Deborah Cox, Lea Salonga, Donny & Marie) and the legendary Billy Stritch (Liza Minnelli, Marilyn Maye, Linda Lavin, Christine Ebersole) serving as her Musical Director/Arranger. De Lesseps was just ranked the #1 Housewife by TV Guide, topping all housewives across all franchised cities. The Model turned Cabaret star has played to sold-out crowds across the country, and “The Countess” is promising plenty of fun, great music and, of course, surprises. With 13 Seasons of reality TV behind her, there’s plenty to talk about, not to mention all the swirling rumors that fans will want to hear about from the girl, herself.
It was a pleasure to sit down with the Countess for this exclusive Hotspots interview:
Did you always know entertaining would be your career, even as a child?
You know it began with my love of singing as a kid. I would sing for my friends and family. Then years ago, I was working in Italian television and also as a model. Those two careers brought me to this point.
What was your first professional gig?
Shooting a Newport cigarette ad 25 years ago.
How did you get cast on RHONY?
I met a woman called Jill Zarin, and she told me about the show. Jill thought I would be perfect for it. It kind of just came to me.
When did you realize RHONY was a hit?
After the first season as we saw people reaction. We realized we were a combination of “Sex and The City” meets “Desperate Housewives.”
Who is your favorite housewife from any of the franchises and why?
I can probably relate most to the Housewives of Beverly Hills. I know Lisa Rinna and admire Lisa Vanderpump’s closet. The Miami Housewives are my girls as well.
Who is your favorite Bravo-lebrity?
Andy Cohen.
How did the idea of a cabaret start, and did you ever think it would be as popular as it has become?
I was with a friend of mine from Los Angeles and he commented that I love to sing and entertain and do jokes, and that I should do a cabaret. I was busy doing other things until 2017. Then I started thinking about it and writing things with my then producer. It was a wonderful thing.
What would be your ultimate entertainment gig?
To perform at Radio City Music Hall.
After 13 seasons is there something we don’t know about you?
I think I often get the countess card pulled all the time, but I grew up with 6 brothers and sisters, and I am a trained nurse. I think people don’t realize that I am down to earth and approachable.
Describe yourself in three words?
Loyal, funny, and down to earth.
What do you do for fun?
I have two kids who are now in their 20’s, and I love to travel with them. I also love to play tennis. I am very adventurous and spontaneous.
Is there anything new in your life?
Funny you should ask as I am launching Fosé Rosé nonalcoholic sparking Rose. It’s delicious, low calorie, has euphoria’s and makes you feel good. By the time your readers are reading this, it will be available to purchase.
Describe what our readers will get when they come to your show?
You are in for a good time. I am doing a Christmas show, so I take classic music and turn it on its head. I also take unexpected songs and make them Christmassy. In addition, I sing some of my classics, and a lot of stories about me and the housewives. It’s a show for everyone and its really a good time. Its spirited and fun and a great way to spend the holiday with your friends and significant others. It’s an all-new show. I have an incredible team and I think this show will blow people’s minds. Also, some of the housewives will be there as they are always supportive.
I also have my new Christmas song “What Do I Want For Christmas,” which I will be singing live at the show. All the housewives are in the track and in the video.
To Purchase tickets for Luann’s December 26th show at The Parker, go to: Parkerplayhouse.com. Luann will also be bringing her show to Orlando at the Hard Rock on December 27 and to Tampa at the Hard Rock on December 28. For more information about the Countess, go to Countessluann.com.
