Sonja & Luann: Pirates, Palm Beach & Picking Up Men

Alex Cooper interviews Sonja Morgan and Luann de Lesseps about their upcoming show 'The Golden Life,' premiering October 20th on E! Network, which reunites original Real Housewives of New York cast members including Ramona Singer and Dorinda Medley. The show follows them in Palm Beach and the Hamptons, exploring their current lives as successful, independent women in their 60s.

Sonja and Luann discuss the differences between Palm Beach and New York, noting that Palm Beach features warmer weather, more available men, and different fashion (florals and pastels vs. street wear). They explain that most men their age are married, with younger men typically attached to wealthy girlfriends, making dating particularly active 'on season' when wealthy men winter in Palm Beach.

Both women reflect on their evolution since the original series. Sonja overcame personal challenges including her husband's serious car accident and learned to balance a private life with public television exposure. She became financially independent and a strong single mother to her daughter Quincy, who graduated summa cum laude from UPenn. Luann transitioned from her marriages (including to 'the Count') into a successful cabaret career that has become globally recognized, releasing music and performing in multiple countries.

The conversation covers dating patterns across age groups. Sonja discusses her approach to dating younger men early in her Housewives tenure, including a professional hockey player, but has refined her preferences. She emphasizes the importance of chemistry and genuine connection over superficial attraction. Both women share experiences meeting men through various venues—Sonia mentions picking up a 'rancher' and taking him to a hotel, while Luann discusses the famous 'pirate' incident from a St. Bart's trip. Luann clarifies the pirate story, explaining she slept with him after Sonia had introduced him, though production coverage made it ambiguous at the time.

The women discuss their cabaret and entertainment ventures. Luann performs globally with her show and just released a new song 'To All The Boys I've Loved Before' (releasing October 9th). Sonia performs 'Sonia in Your City' shows across multiple cities (46 cities in one month) and tours internationally including Australia, England, and upcoming Ireland dates. Both are highly active on Cameo—Sonia is the #1 creator on the platform making at least 12 videos daily, citing that fans use the platform for major life moments like getting through law school, cancer treatment, and family connections.

They discuss their friendships, particularly their decades-long bond. Luann describes Sonia as having 'a heart of gold' with genuine kindness and empathy. Sonia credits Luann for being there through difficult moments including the death of her dog Milou and supporting her through personal challenges. They maintain a supportive dynamic without jealousy about each other's careers and relationships.

The conversation includes advice on dating and relationships. When asked about picking up men, they suggest note-writing at bars (Luann), assessing character on flights before engaging (Sonia), and playing beach volleyball. They discuss preferences for younger vs. older men, finding that older men have better banter, pick up bills more consistently, and are better at emotional connection, while younger men are more likely to ghost. Luann notes she cuts off dating men at age 27, believing they need to establish their own lives and relationships.

Sonja briefly discusses dating a professional athlete (hockey player) and mentions having tried standup comedy at 'Kid Squid in Sac Harbor.' They reference various Housewives moments including Scary Island with Kelly spiraling, the infamous Cartagena trip where everyone got parasites and experienced severe gastro issues (except Bethany who doesn't eat seafood), and the casual encounter with Bethany and Ramona at bingo in Palm Beach.

Luann addresses rumors about kissing Joe Bradley from Southern Hospitality, confirming there was chemistry and they visited her apartment with friends present, though no sexual relationship occurred. She notes his girlfriend wore a tracker on him. She explains she caps dating younger men at 27-28 because they need to establish independent lives and get married.

Both women emphasize the freedom that comes with their current life stage—being in control of their choices, spending time with chosen people, and pursuing meaningful work. They stress that real confidence and authenticity are what make them compelling, not perfection or maintaining appearances. They credit their longevity in television to being 'gritty' and relatable rather than polished.