Inside The World Of Alex And Simon: The Real Housewives Of New York's Most Memorable Couple

Alex McCord and Simon van Kempen, the iconic duo from the early seasons of "The Real Housewives of New York City," left an indelible mark on Bravo fans worldwide. Known for their eccentric personalities, unique fashion sense, and unwavering dedication to each other, this couple's dynamic stood out in a sea of drama-filled friendships and feuds. Whether you loved them or found their quirks puzzling, Alex and Simon were undeniably captivating. Their journey on the show highlighted the highs and lows of navigating New York City's elite social scene while staying true to their values and relationship.

From their stunning Brooklyn townhouse to their candid parenting moments, Alex and Simon opened up their lives for the world to see. Their storyline often focused on their unconventional approach to life and their desire to fit into Manhattan's high society, which sometimes caused friction with the other housewives. Despite the challenges, their love and loyalty to each other shone through, making them a fan-favorite couple who were unapologetically themselves. Over the years, fans have continued to follow their post-show adventures, proving that their impact extended far beyond their time on reality TV.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the lives of Alex and Simon, exploring their background, memorable moments on "The Real Housewives of New York City," and the legacy they've left behind. Whether you're a longtime fan or a curious newcomer looking to learn more about this unforgettable pair, this comprehensive guide will give you all the details you need about Alex and Simon from the beloved Bravo series.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Alex and Simon
• What Made Alex and Simon Unique on The Real Housewives of New York?
• How Did Alex and Simon Meet?
• Alex and Simon’s Life in Brooklyn
• What Was Their Dynamic Like on the Show?
• Memorable Moments from Alex and Simon on RHONY
• How Did Their Parenting Style Stand Out?
• Alex and Simon’s Friendships and Feuds
• Why Did Alex and Simon Leave the Show?
• Life After Housewives for Alex and Simon
• What Is Alex McCord Doing Now?
• What Is Simon van Kempen Doing Now?
• How Did Their Relationship Evolve Over the Years?
• Fans’ Reactions to Alex and Simon
• Legacy of Alex and Simon on RHONY

Biography of Alex and Simon

Before becoming household names on "The Real Housewives of New York City," Alex McCord and Simon van Kempen lived relatively low-profile lives compared to their Manhattan counterparts. Alex, born on October 1, 1973, in Washington, D.C., had a background in acting and graphic design, while Simon, born on March 14, 1964, in Brisbane, Australia, worked in the hospitality industry as a hotel manager.

Here’s a quick look at their personal details:

What Made Alex and Simon Unique on The Real Housewives of New York?

Unlike other cast members who were firmly rooted in Manhattan’s elite social circles, Alex and Simon lived in Brooklyn, which was considered unconventional for the show at the time. Their dedication to each other and their family set them apart, as did their desire to climb the social ladder. Their authenticity and quirks made them polarizing but unforgettable characters on the show.

How Did Alex and Simon Meet?

Alex and Simon’s relationship began in 1999 when they met in New York City. The couple quickly fell in love and tied the knot in 2000. Their shared values and aspirations for a successful family life in New York City cemented their bond, and they’ve been inseparable ever since.

Alex and Simon’s Life in Brooklyn

The couple’s decision to live in Brooklyn rather than Manhattan raised eyebrows among their castmates. However, they took pride in their stunning townhouse, which became a central feature of their storyline. Their home reflected their eclectic taste and was a testament to their commitment to creating a unique and comfortable space for their family.

What Was Their Dynamic Like on the Show?

Alex and Simon’s dynamic was characterized by their unwavering support for each other. They often attended social events together, which was unusual compared to the other housewives’ relationships. While this sometimes led to criticism from the group, the couple remained unbothered, prioritizing their bond over public opinion.

Memorable Moments from Alex and Simon on RHONY

From their extravagant vacation planning to Simon’s infamous red leather pants, Alex and Simon provided plenty of unforgettable moments on RHONY. One standout scene involved Alex delivering a message to the group on behalf of Simon, sparking drama and solidifying their status as a team.

How Did Their Parenting Style Stand Out?

Alex and Simon were devoted parents to their two sons, Francois and Johan. They emphasized language learning and cultural education, often speaking French at home and enrolling their children in private schools. Their parenting style was a topic of discussion among the other housewives, who sometimes found it unconventional.

Alex and Simon’s Friendships and Feuds

While Alex and Simon formed some friendships during their time on RHONY, they were also involved in several feuds. Their desire to fit into the Manhattan social scene sometimes clashed with the other housewives, leading to tension and memorable confrontations.

Why Did Alex and Simon Leave the Show?

After four seasons on RHONY, Alex and Simon decided to step away from the series. Their departure was attributed to a desire to focus on their family and careers, as well as a shift in the show’s direction. Fans were disappointed to see them go but continued to follow their lives post-RHONY.

Life After Housewives for Alex and Simon

Since leaving the show, Alex and Simon have pursued various ventures. Alex transitioned into a new career in psychology, earning a master’s degree and working as a therapist. Simon has explored opportunities in the business and hospitality sectors, staying true to his professional background.

What Is Alex McCord Doing Now?

Alex McCord is now a licensed psychologist based in Australia, where she focuses on helping others through her counseling practice. Her career shift has been widely praised, and she often reflects on her time on RHONY as a stepping stone to personal growth.

What Is Simon van Kempen Doing Now?

Simon van Kempen has continued to work in the hospitality industry and pursue entrepreneurial endeavors. He remains active on social media, sharing updates about his life and family with fans who have followed him since his RHONY days.

How Did Their Relationship Evolve Over the Years?

Over the years, Alex and Simon’s relationship has remained strong, despite the challenges of reality TV fame and life transitions. Their commitment to each other and their family has been a constant, and they continue to support each other’s endeavors.

Fans’ Reactions to Alex and Simon

Fans of RHONY have always had mixed feelings about Alex and Simon, with some admiring their authenticity and others finding their quirks polarizing. However, their impact on the show is undeniable, and they remain a beloved part of the series’ history.

Legacy of Alex and Simon on RHONY

Alex and Simon’s time on RHONY left a lasting impression, showcasing a different side of New York City life and redefining what it means to be a housewife. Their love story, unique personalities, and memorable moments continue to be celebrated by fans and serve as a reminder of the show’s early days.