The Real Housewives of New York City has always been known for its vibrant personalities and unforgettable moments, but season 16 brings a refreshing, ground-breaking layer of representation to our screens. Among the newest cast members stepping into the spotlight is publicist and entrepreneur Hailey Glassman, a vibrant New Yorker who is redefining modern relationships, embracing fluid identity, and stepping fully into her authentic self.
In an interview with GLAAD’s Anthony Allen Ramos, Glassman opened up about using her platform to challenge dated societal norms and celebrate the beauty of living life on her terms.
For Glassman, joining the iconic Bravo universe isn’t just about high fashion and Manhattan outings. “I feel like this is a chance where people get to see who I actually am instead of just putting a paparazzi photo with a false narrative,” Glassman shares. Central to Glassman’s story this season is her open and honest approach to her marriage, married to a man while also dating women, she shares her thoughts on traditional marriage. “I think everyone is so conditioned with this old-school blueprint of a marriage. We’re in a world today that is so colorful… Marriage isn’t just about the old-school expectations, it’s about companionship, chosen family, being there for one another, and whatever normal looks like for each person.”
By publicizing her marriage and dating life with complete transparency, Glassman hopes to destigmatize non-monogamous and non-traditional dynamics. “I think everyone needs to live a life that makes them happy because at the end of the day everyone on the outside judging isn’t going to bed and waking up next to those people.”
Glassman also touched on the importance of increasing bisexual and queer visibility in mainstream media. “I do want to raise awareness that there is a massive double standard, and I do think bisexual men should be respected as well.”
Reflecting on her perspective on love, Glassman focuses on the heart. “I personally don’t place love or lust on gender. I think you can fall in love regardless of whether it’s a man or a woman, it’s about the person. Let’s focus on human-to-human connection, feeling understood, and feeling seen.”
When asked about her connection to the LGBTQ community, Glassman’s enthusiasm was unmistakable. “I swear if you could have 4 gay husbands at this point, my glam team being 2 of them.” She jokes. “The love and support from the gay community has been amazing.
A lot of women and a lot of men have written to me, who are in lavender marriages, and just thanking me for representation because they’ve all been in the closet about the reality of their marriage.”
Looking ahead to the rest of the season, including an adventurous group trip that promises plenty of memorable moments, Glassman remains steadfast in her commitment to living genuinely, “I care about the happiness in my life, I’m not suppressing who I am any longer because of fear of what others think.”
The Real Housewives of New York City Season 16 airs on Bravo on Tuesday nights at 8:00 PM ET/PT.
