‘RHONY’ Star Jessel Taank Didn’t Take Offense to Andy Cohen Asking About Her Plastic Surgery

The Real Housewives of New York City’s Jessel Taank on Plastic Surgery and the Season 15 Reunion

The world of The Real Housewives of New York City is no stranger to drama, and the season 15 reunion was no exception. One of the most talked-about moments came when Jessel Taank found herself in the hot seat, fielding questions about her plastic surgery. In a recent appearance on the “How to Fail” podcast, Taank opened up about the experience, sharing her perspective on the conversation and how it unfolded. While some viewers might have expected her to take offense at the line of questioning, Taank revealed that she wasn’t upset by Andy Cohen’s inquiries. “The fact that Andy asked me, I wasn’t offended because I know he issued a statement about this. He does ask, I’m sure, at every reunion, ‘Have you guys prepared?’” she explained. Taank, who is 45, has always been open about her beauty choices, admitting to using Botox and fillers but drawing the line at more invasive procedures. “My mum would kill me if I did anything more,” she joked. “She literally would.”

The Reunion Conversation Takes an Awkward Turn

The conversation took a more awkward turn when her costar Brynn Whitfield chimed in, making a comment that left Taank confused and defensive. Whitfield casually remarked, “Well, I know what she’s done to her face,” which Taank interpreted as an insinuation that she had undergone more extensive procedures, such as a nose job or a facelift. Taank denied these claims, stating, “None of that is true.” To make matters worse, Whitfield also accused Taank of introducing her to someone who does injectables and then running out on a bill—a claim Taank vehemently denies. “So I think the whole thing took a bit of a dive,” Taank recalled, describing the moment as “confusing” and “awkward.” The exchange quickly shifted the tone of the reunion, leaving viewers cringing at the tension on screen.

Taank’s Candid Admission About Her Beauty Choices

While Taank was clear about what she hasn’t done, she was equally upfront about the procedures she has undergone. “I got Botox and I do filler, and that’s it,” she said during the reunion. She also admitted to getting veneers, which she considers part of her beauty routine. However, Cohen pointed out that Taank hadn’t been entirely transparent about her choices in the past, which sparked a lighthearted back-and-forth between the two. “Yes, nothing else. That’s it,” Taank replied, emphasizing that her enhancements are minimal compared to what some might assume. Her openness about her beauty choices aligns with the Real Housewives franchise’s long-standing tradition of discussing plastic surgery and beauty regimens openly. As Taank noted, Cohen’s questions about plastic surgery are a staple of the reunions, and she didn’t take offense because she understands the context.

Andy Cohen Addresses the Conversation on Social Media

After the reunion aired, Cohen took to social media to address the backlash he received for asking about Taank’s plastic surgery. He reposted a tweet from a viewer who suggested he should “retire” the question, acknowledging that it’s a topic that sparks strong opinions. “‘What work have you done’ remains at the top of the list of viewer questions every season, every franchise,” Cohen wrote. He went on to explain that the Housewives have always been unapologetically candid about their beauty routines, which has become a key part of the show’s DNA. While some critics argue that the focus on plastic surgery objectifies the women, Cohen sees it as a natural extension of the franchise’s ethos of openness and authenticity. For fans, these conversations are a way to connect with the cast on a personal level and understand the choices they make about their bodies and appearances.

Taank Reflects on the Glow-Up and Her Decision to Speak Out

Taank also addressed the buzz surrounding her physical transformation during the reunion. Cohen had earlier commented on her “glow up,” noting that she looked like “an airbrushed version” of herself. Taank explained that her new look was the result of a combination of factors, including cutting her hair, losing weight, and, of course, her regular Botox and filler sessions. While she was happy to share her beauty secrets, she also made it clear that she’s proud of her choices and sees no need to hide them. “I’ve done Botox since I was 26,” she admitted, adding that it’s simply part of her self-care routine. By speaking openly about her experiences, Taank hopes to destigmatize conversations about cosmetic procedures and encourage others to embrace their own choices without fear of judgment.

The Bigger Picture: Beauty, Body Autonomy, and Reality TV

The debate over plastic surgery on The Real Housewives reflects broader societal conversations about beauty standards, body autonomy, and the pressures women face to meet certain aesthetic expectations. While some viewers criticize the franchise for perpetuating unrealistic beauty ideals, others argue that it’s refreshing to see women owning their decisions and refusing to be shamed for them. For Taank, the conversation at the reunion was less about defensiveness and more about setting the record straight. By being unapologetically herself and refusing to hide her choices, she sends a powerful message about self-acceptance and confidence. Love it or hate it, the Real Housewives franchise continues to spark important discussions about beauty, identity, and what it means to be a woman in the public eye.