‘Real Housewives Of New York City’ Season 8 Casting Rumors: Kristen Taekman Speaks Out About Her Decision To Leave The Show

The cast of Bravo's "The Real Housewives of New York City" is being shaken up in Season 8. It was announced in July that longtime cast member Heather Thomson was considering leaving the reality show, and now, it appears a close friend of hers will follow suit. After a challenging few months off camera it appears Kristen Taekman has decided to quit "RHONY."

The mother of two announced her departure in a statement released to E! News. Kristen, 38, told the publication that she had a great run with "RHONY," making lifelong friends during filming, but said that it was her time to go. She plans to use her newfound free time to focus on her husband, Josh Taekman, and two young children, as well as her fledgling businesses. She assured fans that she is, and always will be, "a Housewife."

"My experience during my time on 'RHONY' was fantastic and I made some great new friends," she said. "At this time in my life, I have decided to concentrate on my family and my new business ventures Pop Of Color nail polish and Last Night's Look, my fashion blog. I will remain a Housewife and part of an amazing franchise forever and that is what is important."

The Pop Of Color CEO's best friend on the show, Heather, 45, announced her plan to quit "RHONY" over the summer. According to Us Weekly, after a drama-filled Season 7 she decided the show was no longer "a good fit" for her as a person and business owner. Heather reportedly hoped to utilize her platform as a reality star to promote her brand, Yummie Tummie, and hang out with co-star Carole Radziwill. Instead, she found herself at the center of some of the season's biggest drama and, as such, "is making the choice to walk away."

It is uknown when "RHONY" will start filming again. Bravo has yet to address Kristen or Heather's departure from the series or who may be replacing them.