Bethenny Frankel Feels ‘Free’ on First Birthday Since Mother Died

Mother-daughter relationships are complex. Now, imagine sharing a birthday with a mother that you barely get along with. That’s the recipe for an annual flood of emotions; it has been the reality for Bethenny Frankel.

The Real Housewives of New York alum celebrated her 54th birthday on November 4, but this year’s celebration was slightly different. It was the first birthday she’d celebrated since her mother passed away earlier this year.

RHONY fans know that Bethenny isn’t usually one to show much emotion, but she shared a vulnerable post on her birthday where she opened up about the “complicated” dynamic with her late mother, Bernadette Birk.

Bethenny Frankel’s first birthday alone

Bethenny celebrated another lap around the sun on November 4. She shared an emotional Instagram post opening up about the dynamic she had with her mother and why birthdays were always a touchy subject.

“I was born on my mother’s 20th birthday,” Bethenny wrote along with a carousel of photos from over the years.

She continued, “I was never public about sharing her birthday. Our relationship was complicated at best and it represented pain and shame. Its symbolism was inescapable.”

Most Real Housewives treat their birthdays like a national holiday. Bethenny, on the other hand, said her big day always felt like an “incredible source of anxiety.”

“Like Goldilocks, too little was too little and too much was too much,” Bethenny wrote. “The biggest trauma in my life was this mother daughter relationship, and we were tethered to one another on this one day. As a child I would get physically sick every year.”

This year was different. Since her mother passed away from lung cancer in April 2024, Bethenny said that she felt a different outlook on her birthday. She could celebrate her special day without thinking about the complicated bond she shared with her mom.

“This year, I feel free, lighter, happier as if something has been lifted,” Bethenny continued. “It has been profoundly transformative. I am proud of my age and of the mother, friend, partner and person I am and I am truly happy. I have everything I want and need.”

Bethenny capped off her birthday message with a humble brag about the birthday gift she got for herself — a vintage Mercedes. She also sparked speculation that there might be a new man in her life. The last slide in her Instagram post showed her walking hand in hand with a mystery man. No wonder she feels lighter than ever.

“Thank you for giving me the greatest gift I could ever ask for which is your love, understanding and support. I learn from you every day,” Bethenny concluded. “Happy Birthday to myself… xoxo.”

Real Housewives of New York is currently streaming on Bravo.

TELL US – CAN YOU RELATE TO BETHENNY’S BIRTHDAY STRUGGLE? DO YOU HAVE ANY WORDS OF SUPPORT FOR HER AS SHE EMBARKS ON A NEW YEAR?