At a Glance
- Andy Cohen recalls Jillian Michaels leaving the set in a fit of anger after a routine episode.
- Michaels, then host of The Biggest Loser, later criticized Cohen’s behavior and Bravo programming.
- The incident highlighted tensions between former reality TV stars and network hosts.
Why it matters: The exchange shows how brief moments on live television can spark lasting controversy among high-profile personalities.
Andy Cohen, who has hosted Watch What Happens Live since 2009, recently spoke with Entertainment Weekly about a surprising moment on his show. He remembered a February 2013 appearance by Jillian Michaels, who was then the host of The Biggest Loser.
The Incident
During the episode, Michaels joined Watch What Happens Live alongside The Big Bang Theory actress Melissa Rauch. The segment itself seemed routine, with Michaels appearing in a typical interview setting. However, after filming wrapped, the tone shifted dramatically.
Cohen recalled that Michaels “left and she was screaming at my staff.” He added, “If you scream at my staff, that’s kind of it for me.” The outburst was unexpected, especially given the otherwise smooth production.
Reactions from Michaels
Michaels has not been shy about expressing her dissatisfaction with Cohen and Bravo. In a 2018 interview with Life & Style, she said she never watches Real Housewives and criticized the show’s portrayal of women. She called the franchise a platform that “creates a-.” She further stated that Cohen was “an a-hole.”
A year later, in an interview with Us Weekly, Michaels reiterated her disapproval. She described the experience with Cohen as “truly hideous.” She blamed him for being “condescending” when explaining how to take a shot with the shotski, a tradition on the show.
Michaels has also expressed that she and Cohen have not been friendly for years. She called her experience on the show “the only hideous experience” she has had in her career.
Cohen’s Perspective
When asked whether Michaels would ever return to the show, Cohen responded that he did not think there was a market for her appearance. He added, “By the way, I don’t think she would come.”
Cohen’s remarks were made during a sit-down with Entertainment Weekly, where he reflected on his most confounding moments on the show. He noted that Michaels’ attitude soured after filming, and that the incident left a lasting impression.
Aftermath and Current Views
Since the 2013 incident, Michaels has transitioned into a role as a conservative news commentator. She has continued to critique Bravo’s programming and the broader reality television landscape.
Cohen, meanwhile, remains the host of Watch What Happens Live and has not publicly revisited the incident beyond the Entertainment Weekly interview. His comments suggest that the event remains a point of contention for both parties.
Key Takeaways
- The February 2013 episode of Watch What Happens Live ended with Jillian Michaels screaming at Andy Cohen’s staff.
- Michaels has consistently criticized Cohen, Bravo, and reality TV culture, labeling the experience as “hideous.”
- Cohen has dismissed the possibility of a future reunion with Michaels and has not addressed the incident in detail since.
The episode remains a notable example of how live television can quickly turn into a flashpoint for personal grievances and public criticism.
