Meet ‘The Middle’s New Housewife: Bravo Star Lisa Rinna

Frankie (Patricia Heaton) and Mike Heck (Neil Flynn) get a taste of champagne wishes on an upcoming episode of ABC’s The Middle when son Axl (Charlie McDermott) introduces them to his girlfriend’s wealthy parents.

Frankie instantly gravitates toward chatty mom Tammy (guest star Lisa Rinna)—and the feeling is mutual. “She loves the Hecks right away,” executive producer Eileen Heisler says.

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“Tammy just doesn’t realize the extent of the economic disparity between the two families.” The role fit The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star like an Hermès glove, exec producer DeAnn Heline says. “We’d like to take credit for her performance, but she arrived on set Tammy-ready.”

The Middle, Season Premiere, Oct. 3, 8/7c, ABC