Why Kim Fields Finally Said Yes to Joining Real Housewives of Atlanta

Reality is a new playground for the Hollywood veteran

By Jean Bentley Nov 08, 2015 2:00 PMTags
Watch: Kim Fields Is Finally Ready for Reality TV

Kim Fields and her family have been approached many times by reality TV producers eager to have the actress on their shows—but the newest Real Housewives of Atlanta cast member took a while to finally say yes.

"We've been asked to do reality TV for years, and it just wasn't the right timing, right opportunity," she tells E! News of her new gig.

But somehow, the stars finally aligned and she agreed to join the RHOA cast. "It's such an adventure. It's something different," the Facts of Life and Living Single star says of finally taking the leap. "If you're going to look up and celebrate 40 years of doing something, at this point, for me at least, the next logical progression is what's challenging? What's new? What's different?"

CLICK: When Kim Fields met NeNe Leakes

Mark Hill/Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank

Although Fields didn't have any preconceived notions as far as what to expect, she made sure to do her research and due diligence before walking into situations that can get extremely volatile at times (to say the least!).

"I don't think it's fair to go into any environment armed with, 'Oh, this is already going to be this.' Just go in with an open mind, an open heart," she dishes. "Now, go in with wisdom so you don't get your head knocked off as soon as you hit the door!"

Fields, who will appear alongside her husband and two children on the show, says her biggest concern before taking the leap was the effect on her family and friends. "I'm very, very, very protective of my family, of my marriage, of my parenting."

Bravo

And don't worry, she trusts the audience to know what fights are real and what's being blown out of proportion. "Audiences are so smart now. They know what is puffed-up fodder that is dredged up just for the purposes of being mean-spirited. They know what's real. They certainly know me, and to be able to pull back another layer...has been exciting."

Fields makes her Real Housewives of Atlanta debut on Sunday, Nov. 8 at 8 p.m. on Bravo.

(E! and Bravo are both part of the NBCUniversal family.)