Former RHOBH star Kim Richards has spent years struggling with alcohol and various other problems. The sister of Kathy Hilton and Kyle Richards was a child star who grew up in the spotlight, sadly spiraling. Now, rumors are circulating around the Internet that The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum has passed away, but what is the truth? Keep reading for more details.
Kim Richards Death Hoax Circulates
RHOBH viewers watched Kim Richards’ journey as an OG of the hit Bravo reality series. She came on in Season 1 alongside her sister, Kyle Richards, and was a well-known former Disney star. Additionally, she had four kids, Chad, Brooke, Whitney, and Kimberly, from three different relationships. Her focus was on being a mother, but she was sadly struggling to stay sober. Fans saw her heading back and forth to rehab with Kyle, constantly fearing that she may not make it. In 2024, things went backward when she was allegedly placed on a psych hold.
Her family did all that they could, but they supposedly needed to take time away from her and give her some tough love. Now, rumors are circulating on the Internet that Kim has passed away at the tender age of 61. Two different articles, one from December 2025 and one from less than a week ago, stated that she was gone. Allegedly, a family representative had broken the news, although not much was known just yet. Fans immediately rushed to the links as they were noticeably concerned.
RHOBH viewers chimed in with a variety of comments regarding her alleged passing:
- This makes me sad. She had so much love for her friends and family which she included her fans. Rest in peace Kim. Finally rest in God’s arms.
- Oh no Rest in peace.
However, many quickly did a search on Kim Richards and realized that this was false. Kim is very much alive. Yes, someone with the same name had passed away in Newark, Ohio, but it was not her. Both Kyle Richards and Kathy Hilton are active on social media and have not mentioned anything regarding their sister being ill or, even worse, passing away.
Fake News
Real Housewives of Beverly Hills fans can rest easy, as this appears to be nothing but fake news. It is unclear why this even began circulating, and yes, it does make sense why viewers would believe such a thing. For many seasons, Kyle Richards admitted that she was fearful Kim Richards would pass away from her struggles. However, she seems to be doing as well as she possibly can given the circumstances. Hopefully, this puts some minds at ease for now.
Had you seen these articles, and were you nervous that Kim Richards had passed away? Let us know in the comments, and watch RHOBH Thursdays on Bravo.
Amanda has been a professional freelance writer for over a decade, holding both a BA and an MA. Her passions include animals, iced coffee, gnomes, summer, music, and ‘Vanderpump Rules’.
