The reality show “The Real Housewives of Orange County” premiered in 2006.
Bravo aired the series premiere on March 21, 2006. It followed the personal and professional lives of affluent women living in Orange County, California, using a documentary-style approach centered on friendships, family life, wealth, and conflict.
The program began under the working title “Behind the Gates” while it was being filmed in 2005. Creator Scott Dunlop originally envisioned a show focused on women living in a gated Southern California community. The title changed to “The Real Housewives of Orange County” before the series launched.
It was the first installment of the Real Housewives franchise. Its success led Bravo to develop city-based editions including New York City, Atlanta, New Jersey, and Beverly Hills, followed by international adaptations. A common mix-up is confusing the filming and development period in 2005 with the premiere year: production began before the first episode was broadcast, but the show officially debuted in 2006.