Kandi Burruss, known for her time on The Real Housewives of Atlanta, has always been protective of her family, especially when it comes to her 22-year-old daughter, Riley Burruss.
In an exclusive interview at the 2025 BET Awards on June 9, Kandi opened up about her initial concerns when Riley signed up to star in Next Gen NYC, Bravo’s new reality series.
Riley is making her mark on the show alongside other children of celebrities, including Ariana Biermann (daughter of RHOA alum Kim Zolciak), Gia Giudice (daughter of RHONJ star Teresa Giudice), Brooks Marks (son of RHOA‘s Meredith Marks), and others.
Kandi’s Nervousness About Riley Entering Reality TV
While Kandi has been in the public eye for years, her daughter’s decision to step into the spotlight was a different experience. At the BET Awards, Kandi, 49, admitted to PEOPLE that she was nervous about Riley entering the world of reality television.
“It’s your baby, you know what I mean?” she said. “People already be trying to say crazy stuff about my child online and other celebrity kids. When it’s her out front, it’s like really nothing I could do to shelter her.”
Kandi further explained her fears: “Because now it’s really, all eyes are on you. It ain’t about me. You’re not just catching a stray. It’s like people can really just focus on you and say whatever they want to say. And for sure, so I’m scared. Oh Lord. I’m scared of what she’s gonna be doing on there, child.”
Despite her worries, Kandi acknowledged that Riley, like anyone in reality TV, would have her own moments. “I know we all gonna do stuff,” she said, referring to her own controversial moments on TV.
“I’ve done some wild stuff or said wild things on TV or whatever. So with that being said, we’ll just have to have a little talk about it and then move past it.”
Riley Calls on Mom for Support
Riley, who has already navigated the pressures of the public eye, has turned to her mom for advice on how to handle herself in her new reality TV role. On the show’s third episode, which aired June 17, Riley was confronted by castmate Charlie while traveling to a party.
Charlie accused Riley of being “scary” and “intimidating” to a girl he had just met. His exaggerated gestures and mocking behavior led Riley to tear up, as she explained, “I just don’t like that y’all are trying to spin this narrative that I’m like, this scary Black girl, when I’m not.”
In a heartfelt phone call to her mom, Riley recounted the incident, and Kandi immediately expressed her frustration. “I’m glad that you let him know.
I don’t think it’s cool,” Kandi said, standing by her daughter. “It just frustrates me to hear that, because as a Black woman, you’re the minority and it’s okay.” Kandi went on to reassure Riley, “You’re not afraid to speak up for yourself, which you should not be.”
Kandi’s Continued Support
Through it all, Kandi has remained a strong source of support for her daughter, providing not just advice but emotional backing as Riley navigates the complexities of being a young woman in the reality TV world.
“You’re not afraid to speak up for yourself, which you should not be,” Kandi emphasized, underscoring her belief that Riley should always stand her ground.
As Riley continues to adjust to life on camera, Kandi’s guidance and her own experience on reality TV will no doubt play a pivotal role in helping Riley manage the spotlight with confidence and grace.
