The next wave of reality television has arrived, and it’s looking to change the narrative.

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Following the end of the ‘Love & Hip Hop’  franchise, several former cast members are beginning a new chapter with TREND Network, a platform they say is bringing authenticity back to reality TV by focusing on real stories instead of manufactured drama.

Founded by NowThat’sTV CEO Teleau “TLo” Belton,  is launching with two reality series: ‘Coming Up Miam’, premiering July 1, 2026, and ‘The Blueprint Atlanta’.

That Grape Juice spoke exclusively with Belton and several stars joining the network, including Alexis Skyy, Lyrica Anderson, Akbar V, and Khaotic, about why they believe TREND Network is changing the reality television landscape.

Belton explained that authenticity was the driving force behind every casting decision.

“Everybody you named, they’re very authentic. They’re themselves. They don’t hide, they don’t sugarcoat it, and I know that’s what people want to see more of.”

After spending several years on ‘Love & Hip Hop’, Alexis Skyy says TREND Network finally allows her to tell her story on her own terms.

“I was on the Love & Hip Hop franchise for about five or six years, and I just feel like they didn’t allow us to really tell our story the way we wanted to tell our story. No shade—it was a great opportunity during that time, and it put us on a platform to be where we are now. But I feel like TREND Network gives us that opportunity to truly showcase who we are.”

Akbar V believes audiences have grown tired of overly produced reality television.

“Love & Hip Hop just got so boring, and it got so animated. Everybody was making up storylines. On TREND Network, what you see is what you get. Nothing is made up—it’s real life, real stories, real situations. I think that’s what people really want to see.”

During the call, news broke of the passing of music executive Clive Davis, prompting Lyrica Anderson to reflect on his legacy.

“Anytime a legend like him passes away, it’s definitely sad. We grow up hearing about people like him and the incredible artists they’ve helped discover. You almost feel like they’re going to be around forever, so it’s heartbreaking whenever we lose someone like that.”

Khaotic says the network’s unfiltered approach was one of the biggest reasons he decided to join.

“What I love most about this network is that it’s uncut, unfiltered, and raw. It’s us being our natural selves, in our natural element. We can be ourselves without being judged.”

Following his recent viral interaction with Rihanna, Khaotic couldn’t help but share just how much the superstar means to him.

“I’ve been a fan of Rihanna ever since she dropped ‘Take a Bow’ in 2008. I love Rihanna with my heart and soul. I’ve got paintings of Rihanna hanging on my walls at home—most people don’t even know that. I feel like Rihanna is one of the realest, rawest, and most genuine women in the world.”

While reunion specials have become a staple of reality television, Belton revealed that the network plans to take a different approach.

Instead of a traditional reunion, the network is planning a group trip that will bring together cast members from its various reality series, creating new storylines outside of the usual reunion format.

To wrap up our exclusive interview, we asked the cast one final question: If you could add anyone to the cast lineup, who would it be?

Belton admitted he already had a few names in mind, but one name immediately united the entire cast: Momma Dee. Everyone agreed that the fan favorite would bring unforgettable moments, hilarious one-liners in that order!

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