Kyle Richards: Battling Social Expectations
At 56, Kyle Richards, iconic "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" star, is coming up on 3 full years of living alcohol‑free. Back in October 2023, she stated on Bravo that alcohol simply “wasn’t serving” her anymore. Fast forward to July 15, 2024, and she celebrated her 2-year milestone with a gym selfie and a heartfelt reflection, reminding everyone that sobriety is a marathon, not a sprint.
“A time when two weeks seemed impossible,” she confessed, recognizing how far she’s come. But the hardest part? Battling social expectations. Friends and fans loved “Party Kyle,” and stepping away meant disappointing the “old me.” She dedicated these past years to prioritizing mental and physical wellness above fitting in.
Fueling Body & Mind
Kyle didn’t just quit drinking, she replaced it with a vibrant wellness routine. Through gym selfies and stronger workouts, she showed that the absence of alcohol wasn’t just about giving up something, it was about gaining so much more: energy, confidence, and clarity. As she put it:
“My mental and physical health became a lot more important to me than feeling like I had to be ‘on’… But the real reward is how I feel on the inside. I feel strong, energetic and grateful for my body.”
No magic solutions, just consistent dedication to better choices.
Weathering Tough Seasons
Kyle’s decision to stay sober coincided with deeply personal trials, including her separation from husband Mauricio Umansky after 27 years together. In those moments, alcohol could’ve been an easy escape, but she chose to face her reality sober. She said it best:
“It would have been a lot harder going through these difficult times if I had been drinking.”
Her resolve demonstrates that sobriety doesn’t just make you stronger, it allows you to navigate life’s curveballs with clarity and resilience.
Inspiring Others & Turning the Mirror Around
Kyle’s journey isn’t just personal, it’s communal. Across social media, strangers have told her she inspired them to explore sobriety, too. That ripple effect fuels her to keep going.
“Many strangers come up to me and tell me that I have inspired them… That makes me happy and inspires me in return.”
By owning her story, honestly and bravely, she’s created a space where strength is shared, not hidden.
Takeaways from Kyle’s Journey
Kyle’s sobriety journey proves that change is possible at any age. It’s not about losing the “party self”, it’s about gaining the real self: clear, strong, and free. Through her milestones, reflections, and honesty, she’s redefining what courage looks like on screen and in life.
"I want to wake up every day feeling my best. Mentally & physically strong enough to face whatever comes my way." — Kyle Richards
Early struggles are real, but so is the peace and pride waiting on the other side. Through accountability, coaching, and community, you will get the methods, tools, and support you need to change your relationship with alcohol. Start your 7-day free trial to the A Sober Girls Guide Membership.