AceShowbiz - Next Gen NYC on Bravo spotlights the emerging talents of young socialites connected to established reality TV royalty, capturing their personal and professional growth in New York City.

The series prominently features Brooks Marks, daughter of Meredith Marks from Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, and Riley Burruss, who first appeared on Real Housewives of Atlanta as Kandi Burruss’s reserved daughter. These two lead a cast of celebrity offspring navigating the challenges of carving out their own identities in the demanding world of Manhattan’s social scene and reality television.

By focusing on these familiar faces, the show appeals to dedicated Bravo fans who have watched these young stars grow up alongside their mothers’ reality TV journeys. However, stepping into the spotlight as main cast members presents a unique set of pressures and opportunities that differ greatly from their earlier cameo appearances.

When asked about achieving success in reality TV, Riley Burruss responded with candid optimism: "I don't think I've made it yet, but I'm working towards it. We'll get there." Meanwhile, Brooks Marks described a surreal moment when she witnessed someone wearing her clothing brand in public, marking a tangible milestone in her career.

Regarding their first significant earnings, Riley fondly recalled investing in her French bulldog, Banks, humorously acknowledging the expense. Brooks chose to reinvest her paycheck into expanding her clothing line, underscoring her entrepreneurial spirit.

When asked to sum up their onscreen personas in five words or fewer, Burruss described herself as silly, fun, a little dramatic, funny, and chill, while Marks hopes to be seen as authentic, loyal, and funny. These descriptions reflect the dynamic yet genuine individuals behind the reality TV characters.

The defining moments of their reality TV careers so far reveal contrasting experiences. Riley highlighted two standout episodes: a poignant discussion about microaggressions and a memorable, lighthearted scene involving a waterslide mishap. Brooks pointed to a deeply personal conversation with her mother during season one about whether to continue her work or take a different path, indicating the emotional depth behind the show’s drama.

When reflecting on moments they might change, Burruss expressed a philosophy of acceptance, emphasizing that every experience offers valuable lessons. In contrast, Marks shared a sense of being misunderstood by viewers during her appearances on Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, noting that the limited screen time painted an incomplete picture. The expanded exposure on Next Gen NYC offers audiences a fuller understanding of who she is.

Both stars acknowledged the challenges of public perception. Riley admitted to feeling frequently misunderstood but emphasized the importance of not always needing to be understood, a perspective she credited to supportive conversations with her mother and friends.

Asked which reality TV role they might swap into, Brooks expressed interest in Food Network shows, especially enjoying the idea of being a judge sampling various dishes. Meanwhile, Riley admired her mother’s position but affirmed satisfaction with her current path.

The discussion turned to authenticity in reality TV personas. Marks believes she remains consistent on- and offscreen, though teasingly hinted that viewers will discover who is least authentic in the upcoming season two of Next Gen NYC.

Regarding the classic reality TV trope of needing a villain, Brooks acknowledged its appeal for viewers, while Riley countered that relatability is a more important element than villainy itself. Both agreed the villain role in their series rotates among cast members, with each passing the baton to avoid being typecast negatively.

Reflecting on life before fame, Riley shared that her perspective is shaped by growing up with her mother’s longstanding success, which provided a unique vantage point on celebrity life. For aspiring reality stars, both offered practical advice: Riley urged authenticity despite inevitable criticism, while Brooks warned of the intense nature of reality TV, advising newcomers to be prepared for its challenges.

When asked to pick two reality stars to join them on the competitive show The Traitors, Riley chose Mary Cosby from Salt Lake City and her mother, while Brooks selected her mother and Riley herself, highlighting the close bonds within their circle.

Their favorite reality TV feuds revealed personal favorites and iconic moments. Riley enjoyed the drama of Bad Girls Club, while Brooks recalled memorable exchanges from her mother’s show, including Meredith Marks’s catchphrases and a legendary moment involving Kim Kardashian and her sister.

Brooks Marks described her approach to drama, explaining she intervenes when friends need support or when she feels disrespected, though she admits sometimes letting things slide.

Riley Burruss, having grown up with constant filming, appreciates moments from her youth captured on camera, finding humor in her early attitude. Watching past footage has also led to changed perspectives, especially regarding family dynamics she didn’t fully grasp at the time.

Filming experiences differ between cities, with Riley noting the more relaxed atmosphere in Atlanta versus the constant public attention and occasional heckling in New York City.

When asked about ideal nights out in New York, Riley described a versatile nightlife involving trendy dinners at places like Catch, followed by either low-key apartment gatherings or spontaneous adventures. Brooks preferred a quieter evening involving Italian food and rest but also enjoys starting nights with cocktails at stylish bars and late dinners before hitting clubs.

Fashion-wise, Brooks is excited about terrycloth fabrics, specifically a custom material developed for her brand. She also shared admiration for her mother’s standout looks, including a crystal-studded blazer dress designed by Christian Cowan and a striking Rick Owens jacket featured in recent episodes.

Next Gen NYC offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of young stars balancing legacy, ambition, and the pressures of public life. Through candid conversations and behind-the-scenes moments, Brooks Marks and Riley Burruss reveal the complexities of growing up in the spotlight while striving to define their own success on their own terms.