The inaugural VRT Awards, presented by the Virtual Reali-Tea podcast, have announced their winners, celebrating the best in reality television as voted by fans. This first-ever awards event recognizes a diverse array of talents, from seasoned veterans to emerging stars, with a live celebration planned for September 17 in New York City.
Phaedra Parks, known for her role on ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta,’ won the ‘Made to Shade’ award for her iconic reads and sharp comebacks that have become legendary within the Bravo community. Her ability to deliver memorable one-liners during heated reunions and conflicts has solidified her status as a fan favorite over the years.
Joe Gorga from ‘Real Housewives of New Jersey’ was honored as the ‘Most Valuable Plus One’ for his unwavering support and defense of his wife Melissa. His consistent presence as a hype man and loyal partner on the show has endeared him to viewers, making this award a fitting tribute to his contributions.
Alana ‘Honey Boo Boo’ Thompson took home the ‘Best Clip, Clip, Clip!’ award for her viral ‘dollar makes me holler’ moment, which has resonated widely in pop culture. Having grown up in the public eye, Thompson’s clip exemplifies the spontaneous and entertaining nature of reality TV that captivates audiences.
Andy Cohen, the longtime host and executive producer behind many Bravo shows, was named ‘Hot-Tea of the Year’ for his charm and influence spanning nearly two decades. His humorous acknowledgment of being a ‘daddy to many’ highlights his beloved role in shaping the reality TV landscape.
Kristin Cavallari earned the ‘Comeback Queen’ award for her successful Peacock series, ‘Honestly Cavallari: The Headline Tour,’ following personal challenges including a divorce and family disputes. Her resilience and return to prominence demonstrate her enduring appeal and ability to reinvent herself.
Other winners include Dorit Kemsley for ‘Most Coveted Closet,’ recognizing her luxurious fashion sense on ‘Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’; Amaya Espinal for ‘A Reali-Tea Star is Born’ after her standout performance on ‘Love Island USA’; Jessi Ngatikaura for ‘Boss Babe’ due to her entrepreneurial success on ‘The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’; and the BFF Award to Marysol Patton and Alexia Nepola for their 25-year friendship showcased on ‘Real Housewives of Miami.’
The awards will culminate in a live event at City Winery in NYC on September 17, featuring performances by winners like Candiace Dillard Bassett and appearances by hosts Evan Real and Danny Murphy. This gathering aims to bring the virtual fan community together in person, celebrating the vibrant and ever-evolving world of reality television.