Luann de Lesseps Talks Boyfriend Michael Filming New Show (Exclusive)

Exclusive Interview

Luann de Lesseps has the support of boyfriend Michael Riemerschmid amid her new reality television journey on The Golden Life. The real estate agent, who has been dating de Lesseps for three years, will appear on the new show, as well.

“He’s there to support me,” de Lesseps tells Swooon. “He’s a natural because he’s comfortable in his own skin.”

Dorinda Medley also points out that Riemerchmid is “so good looking,” which admittedly became an issue when de Lesseps’ castmates spent time with him.

Paul Bruinooge / Patrick McMullan via Getty Images

“He’s so handsome, and I think you can see that. It’s tricky around the women, of course, because I knew when they got their eyes on him, it was going to be … that was a problem in the beginning,” she points out.”And then we straightened that part out. Hands off my man, girls! But I love the fact that they’re playful and he went along and played with them for a hot second until I told him, ‘Yeah, that’s not happening.’ And the man adores me.”

Medley confirms that Riemerschmid “really does come there to support” de Lesseps. “He’s not trying to be overly engaged. He’s there in a very loving way, I think,” she notes.

De Lesseps agrees that Riemerschmid didn’t film just to “be on TV,” and compares the situation to her relationship with Jacques Azoulay, whom she dated for nearly five years before their 2013 split.

“Jacques was amazing on the show because he was comfortable with who he is,” de Lesseps explains. “Not to compare the two, but just the comfort level … some men are better than others at being on TV. And some men, you can smell it, like, they want to be in the limelight. Michael is there to support me and let me be a star.”

The Golden Life, Series Premiere, Tuesday, October 20, 10/9c, E!