The cast of Netflix’s new reality series “Members Only: Palm Beach” has responded to Bethenny Frankel’s viral comparison of them to “Walmart Birkins,” with many taking the remarks as a compliment rather than an insult. Frankel, a former “Real Housewives of New York City” star, sparked debate by claiming the show’s buzz stems from jealousy among Palm Beach’s elite rather than interest in the cast itself.
In a TikTok video, Frankel likened the Palm Beach social scene to the exclusivity of Hermès Birkins, arguing that longtime residents are fixated on distinguishing themselves from newcomers—especially those who don’t live on the island proper. She described the behavior as “absurd and pretentious,” comparing it to the societal divisions in “The Gilded Age.”
Cast member Ro-Mina Ustayev admitted she initially didn’t fully grasp Frankel’s point but believed the commentary was supportive. “My friends said she was defending me about the behind-the-scenes issues,” she explained, adding she’d welcome a conversation with Frankel.
Rosalyn Yellin, another star, embraced Frankel’s take, stating, “I loved it. The country can talk about it—let’s hear it.” Yellin agreed with Frankel’s critique of Palm Beach’s obsession with geography, quipping that locals criticizing the cast for not living on the island are “more ridiculous than the women on the show.”
Taja Abitol dismissed the idea that Frankel’s “Walmart Birkin” remark was derogatory, calling it a misunderstanding. “I’m flattered she’s watching,” she said, extending an invite for Frankel to visit her wellness company, TajaDrip, at Miami’s Faena Hotel.
Frankel’s broader critique targeted Palm Beach’s wealth-centric culture, where “billionaires feel poor” amid extreme affluence. Regardless of the debate, the show’s provocative nature has achieved its goal: generating conversation. “Members Only: Palm Beach” is now streaming on Netflix.