At 22, Riley Burruss Steps Into the Spotlight and Shares Candid Truths About Mom Kandi

Kandi Burruss, Grammy-winning musician and star of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” (RHOA), has long been known for her ambition, drama, and quick wit.

But while Kandi’s rise to fame has played out on television, her daughter Riley Burruss has quietly grown up before viewers’ eyes, transforming from a shy child into a confident young adult now ready to share her own story.

Riley, who first appeared on RHOA as a toddler in 2009, has matured in the public eye, her journey closely intertwined with her mother’s. As Kandi balanced a demanding career, friendships, and relationships, she always emphasized that Riley was her top priority.

Fans watched Riley evolve from a reserved girl into a poised woman, culminating in her graduation from New York University in 2024—a milestone that symbolized her perseverance through the challenges of growing up in the spotlight.

Originally interested in nutrition, Riley eventually shifted her focus to the music industry, inspired by her mother’s success as a singer, producer, and businesswoman.

Riley has made it clear, however, that she wants to carve her own path, seeking to build a name for herself apart from her mother’s legacy. While she admires Kandi’s work ethic, Riley is determined to establish her own identity.

Growing up with a famous parent wasn’t always easy. In a recent interview, Riley opened up about the pressures of constant media attention, especially regarding her looks and demeanor.

She spoke honestly about how public scrutiny affected her self-esteem, revealing the emotional toll of life in the limelight. Among her most surprising admissions were her thoughts on Kandi’s parenting style; while Riley appreciates her mother’s dedication, she sometimes wished for more one-on-one time, as Kandi’s busy schedule often took her away from home.

Still, Riley is grateful for the values and skills she learned, which she now carries into her own life.

Riley also touched on the unique pressures of growing up in a financially secure household, noting the expectations that came with it. Despite the advantages, she felt the burden of living up to her family’s reputation.

Her candidness about wanting to step out from Kandi’s shadow has resonated with fans, many of whom admire her maturity and vulnerability.

The Burruss family dynamic is shifting as Kandi steps away from RHOA to pursue new ventures in acting, producing, and Broadway. This transition has allowed Kandi to focus more on her personal life, but not without challenges.

When Riley’s comments about her upbringing made headlines, Kandi responded with pride and affection, emphasizing their strong bond and mutual respect.

Riley is now preparing to star in her own reality show, “Making It in Manhattan,” which will chronicle her transition from college to a career in the music industry. The show promises to shed light on Riley’s ambitions, struggles, and the complexities of forging her own identity in the entertainment world.

As Riley embarks on this new chapter, she joins the ranks of celebrity children making their mark, but her focus on music sets her apart. The Burruss family story is far from over, and fans are eager to see what’s next for both Kandi and Riley as they continue to evolve and inspire.