Countess Luann Opens Up on Cabaret Chaos and Life Lessons
In a candid and revealing interview, Countess Luann de Lesseps, the Real Housewives of New York star turned cabaret sensation, dishes on the most chaotic moments of her career, the importance of self-belief, and unforgettable encounters with celebrities. From handling unexpected on-stage incidents to sharing wisdom on class and confidence, Luann offers a glimpse into her multifaceted life beyond reality TV.
Freedom and Creative Expression
When asked about the best thing money can buy, Luann emphasizes freedom, particularly creative freedom. "Freedom to do whatever you want to do," she says. "On the Housewives, I can’t sing whatever I want in a cabaret show because of music rights. But on the cabaret stage, I can sing whatever I want." This liberty allows her to fully express herself artistically, a key aspect of her post-reality TV career.
Chaotic Cabaret Moments
Luann recounts one of the most chaotic incidents from her cabaret shows. "I engage with the audience, play games, or do Q&As," she explains. "One night, I stopped at a table of bachelorettes and handed one the microphone. As she went to ask a question, she projectile vomited on me." With remarkable composure, Luann handled the situation like a pro, simply asking for a napkin and continuing the show. This story highlights her ability to stay calm under pressure and keep the performance going.
Key Life Lessons
Reflecting on her book, Class with the Countess, Luann shares a crucial lesson she wishes she had learned earlier. "If you don’t think you’re great, nobody else will," she states. "When you feel great about yourself, you act classier and possess an air that screams class." This insight underscores the importance of self-confidence in both personal and professional realms.
Defining Chic and Unchic Behavior
Luann defines the least chic things someone can do, focusing on poor behavior. "Treating somebody else badly is unchic," she says. She also mentions parents who can’t manage their children, people who talk too much without reading the room, and obnoxious gum-chewing. Her views emphasize respect and awareness in social interactions.
Reality TV and Unique Job Experiences
If she had to pick another reality show, Luann imagines a concept called Wingman, where she helps people find connections. She also recalls her strangest jobs before fame, including washing dishes in a rest home, working at a pool company, and handing out flyers as a model in New York. "I was the only girl getting chased around the office," she laughs, showcasing her humble beginnings.
Celebrity Encounters and Embarrassing Moments
Luann shares an embarrassing run-in with Mick Jagger at David Bowie’s house in Mustique. "My friend put on my song Chic, C’est La Vie, and I was so embarrassed I almost crawled under the table," she recalls. "Then Mick Jagger asked me to dance." This anecdote adds a touch of humor and humility to her celebrity experiences.
Dream Casting and Housemates
For a biopic, Luann would cast Sandra Bullock as herself, praising her talent. Her dream housemate would be Carol Burnett or Joan Rivers, admiring their storytelling and careers. "I could talk to her for days," she says of Burnett. Conversely, when asked who she would never let into her house, Luann jokes about Bethenny Frankel but ultimately maintains an open-door policy, reflecting her welcoming nature.
Luann’s interview blends humor, insight, and real-life stories, offering fans a deeper look at her journey from reality TV to cabaret stardom. Her emphasis on self-belief and resilience resonates as key takeaways from her colorful career.
