‘Real Housewives’ OG to Star in Sports Drama

Season 16 of the “Real Housewives of Atlanta” is finally a wrap, with the third and final part of the reunion airing on Sunday, July 27, 2025. Fans of the Bravo series are still processing the fallout of the messy season, and already we know what’s next for one of the originals.

According to Deadline, Cynthia Bailey has a starring role in “Diamond,” a coming-of-age sports drama written by DeShon Hardy.

Cynthia Bailey’s New Sports Drama With Former NFL TE Vernon Davis

NBC Universal

Cynthia Bailey shared that she is set to star in the new sports drama alongside former NFL TE, Vernon Davis. Bailey shared the news on Instagram, captioning her post, “Here we go! @dhardy99 @vernondavis85 @jemarcus_kilgore”

Cynthia is set to play the mother of Diamond McCarren, a teenage basketball whiz who is trying to break the family cycle of adversity and trauma. According to Deadline, Jemarcus Kilgore plays the title character, while former NFL tight end Vernon Davis will play his incarcerated father.

The title character is vying for a Division 1 scholarship while dealing with his mother’s addiction and drug overdose.

Why the Reality Star Chose This Project

NBC Universal

While this project may initially seem like a surprising move for Bailey, she connected with it, telling Deadline, “This story really touched with me. It showed how families can stay together through any and everything. I wanted the opportunity to play a meaningful role and when I read this script I knew this was it.”

Vernon Davis felt similarly, saying, “When I read the script for Diamond, I was immediately drawn to its honesty and emotional depth. I’m proud to help bring a film to life that not only entertains, but also sparks conversation and inspires change.”

This is not Bailey’s first acting role. She made her debut back in the 1990 film, “Without You I’m Nothing.” She also popped up in guest-starring roles on shows like “New York Undercover” and “The Cosby Show.” She eventually joined RHOA during Season 3 back in 2010.

In the love department, after keeping things very quiet for nearly a year, Bailey slowly began teasing her latest romance. She finally confirmed her love affair with Dutch-born musician LePrince during an episode of “Watch What Happens Live” in June 2025.