Angie Katsanevas, a star from “The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City,” is set to become the first Real Housewife to testify before Congress, advocating for franchise businesses on Thursday, January 22, 2026. Her testimony, arranged through the International Franchise Association, marks a significant moment where pop culture intersects with federal policy-making, highlighting the growing influence of reality TV personalities in substantive discussions.
Katsanevas plans to leverage her personal experience as a business owner to make her case. She co-founded the hair salon chain Lunatic Fringe, which has expanded to nine franchise locations across the country, providing her with direct insights into the franchising model. Her testimony will focus on the benefits of franchising for economic growth, emphasizing how it can serve as a reliable path for small business owners to scale their operations and achieve financial success.
The message she intends to deliver is deeply rooted in her own family history. As the daughter of Greek immigrants, Katsanevas sees franchising as a powerful tool for achieving the American Dream, particularly for women and immigrant communities. She aims to advocate for policies that reduce barriers to entry and support franchisees in building sustainable, generational wealth through ownership and independence.
This appearance is historic for the Bravo network, as no Real Housewife has previously testified before Congress in such a formal capacity. While Lisa Vanderpump, another Bravo star, has addressed lawmakers on animal welfare issues, Katsanevas’s testimony is unique in its focus on business and economics, blending entertainment appeal with serious policy advocacy.
The congressional hearing is expected to explore legislative avenues to bolster franchise businesses, which are often critical drivers of local economies and job creation. Katsanevas will likely discuss specific measures, such as tax incentives, streamlined regulations, and enhanced access to funding, that could help franchisees thrive and expand their impact.
Her participation reflects a broader trend where celebrities and reality TV figures are increasingly engaging with political and social causes. By testifying, Katsanevas uses her platform to shed light on important economic issues, potentially influencing public opinion and policy decisions that affect small business owners nationwide.
Following the testimony, Katsanevas may continue her advocacy efforts, possibly working with the International Franchise Association or other groups to promote franchise opportunities. This event could pave the way for more entertainment-industry collaborations with policymakers, demonstrating the potential for media figures to contribute meaningfully to public discourse.
