Luann Is Grateful For Fan Support During Her Divorce

For the later part of this past week, the shocking news that Real Housewives of New York City star Luann de Lesseps and husband Tom D’Agostino were getting divorced has been a hot conversation topic among RHONY fans everywhere. On Friday, Aug. 4, Luann made a statement on Twitter thanking fans for their support and encouragement, while also changing her display name from "Luann D’Agostino" back to "Luann de Lesseps."

Luann and Tom were married on New Year's Eve 2016, and the news of their divorce comes less than eight months into their marriage. Luann shared the surprising news that she and Tom were divorcing on Twitter on Thursday, Aug. 3. "It's with great sadness that Tom & I agreed to divorce," she tweeted. "We care for each other very much, hope you respect our privacy during this sad time!" Although some people on social media attacked Luann and made jokes about her short marriage, many fans expressed support for Luann. Although she stars in a reality show, Luann is still a human being and she deserves respect during what could be a difficult time in her life.

In her first statement since announcing her divorce, Luann expressed gratitude for the support her fans have given her. "Thank you for the generous expression of warmth, kindness and understanding," she posted to Twitter. "Your support and encouragement helps me to get through." It's great to see that Luann has taken note of the kind words from fans, and that she hasn't been distracted by any of the negative reactions.

Followers of Luann's were also quick to note that she changed her display name back to her old last name. Interestingly, Luann was born with the last name Nadeau, but changed it to de Lesseps when she married her first husband, Count Alexandre de Lesseps. For whatever reason, Luann appears to have decided to go back to her former last name, and it's definitely her prerogative to do so. Her marriage to Tom has been subject to so much scrutiny, so it's understandable that Luann may want to put that part of her life behind her.

It isn't clear whether Luann's divorce will be part of next season of RHONY or not. Some fans have taken to petitioning Bravo and Andy Cohen to film a one-on-one interview with Luann to incorporate into the upcoming (and already taped) reunion special. But whether Luann chooses to remain private of share the details leading up to her divorce from Tom, one thing is for sure — she absolutely deserves the support and encouragement she's been receiving.