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Reality TV Producer Andy Cohen Talks All Things Housewives At UM

CORAL GABLES (CBS4) - It's safe to say producer and television host Andy Cohen was born with the gift of gab; so the title of his new book, "Most Talkative: Stories from the Front Lines of Pop Culture" is his perfect calling card.

"Were you voted 'Most Talkative" in high school?" asked CBS4's Lisa Petrillo.

"You bet I did," said Andy. "Although I didn't look as good in the yearbook picture as I do now!"

Yes, Andy has come a long way. This self-described pop culture junkie has turned his pop passion into profit. Cohen has produced such hit shows as "Top Chef" and countless others including all of "The Real Housewives" franchises.

"First there was Orange County, then Atlanta, New Jersey, DC, Beverly Hills and now Miami," Cohen said. "I love the Miami housewives and we are shooting season 3 right now."

And when it comes to Miami; Cohen does have a favorite.

"I love Mama Elsa. She gave me the necklace I'm wearing," Cohen said. "I wear it all the time. It was blessed by a priest."

So how do they choose a potential Real Housewife?

"They are women who look good, who are interesting or inspirational," Cohen said. "Women who have something to say. There are no shrinking violets. It's not "Real Housewives of The Wallflowers!'"

"Would you like to be a housewife?" he asked Petrillo.

"No," she said. "No Thank you. I'm a fan of the show but it's not for me. I would be afraid," said Petrillo.

"I understand," Cohen said seriously.

Andy's " Watch What Happens Live" TV show is one of Bravo's biggest hits and it has made Andy suddenly a household name and face.

Yes, life is good for this 44-year-old producer turned television star whose book was meant to tell a few funny stories and thank the people who've made his dream a reality.

"I'm having fun. I'm having a lot of fun," Cohen said while laughing.

Andy read from his book "Most Talkative: Stories from the Front Lines of Pop Culture" Monday night at The Bank United Center at The University of Miami in Coral Gables.

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