Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · August 19, 2025 · Entertainment

RHONY Star Racquel Chevremont Sues Ex-Fiancée for $10 Million Over Harassment and Financial Betrayal

Real Housewives of New York newbie Racquel Chevremont has slapped her ex-fiancée, famed artist Mickalene Thomas, with a $10 million lawsuit (seen in 2024)

SCANDAL ROCKS THE ART WORLD: Racquel Chevremont Accuses Ex-Fiancée Mickalene Thomas of Harassment, Financial Betrayal, and Unpaid Work

In a bombshell lawsuit that's sending shockwaves through the art world, Real Housewives of New York star Racquel Chevremont is taking her former fiancée, acclaimed artist Mickalene Thomas, to court for a whopping $10 million in damages. Chevremont claims she was subjected to years of harassment, financial exploitation, and unpaid work by the renowned artist, who has been praised for her striking visuals and poignant messages.

Chevremont, a Bronx-born art curator and model, worked as Thomas's strategist and dealmaker from 2012 to 2022, brokering multimillion-dollar sales and acting as her liaison in the art world. But according to Chevremont's court papers, she was paid improperly for over a decade, both as an employee and under a written agreement effective January 1, 2021.

The Bronx-born art curator and model claims Thomas, whose work hangs in MoMA and even Jay-Z's Manhattan office, built her empire on her behind-the-scenes efforts

The allegations against Thomas are nothing short of explosive. Chevremont claims that Thomas subjected her to a "hostile and abusive work environment" and engaged in quid pro quo harassment, repeatedly pressuring her to resume their romantic relationship after they broke up in 2020. But when Chevremont made it clear she was not interested, Thomas allegedly terminated her employment in violation of New York State and New York City Human Rights Laws.

But that's not all - Chevremont also alleges that Thomas promised her 20 percent commissions on multimillion-dollar deals, but then "illegally diverted" the money into her own company. It's a staggering accusation that threatens to upend Thomas's reputation as a mastermind artist and cultural icon.

Chevremont's team has released a scathing statement accusing Thomas of exploiting her skills and expertise for years without proper compensation or recognition. "Racquel Chevremont is seeking justice for the years of exploitation, nonpayment, and unlawful conduct she suffered at the hands of Mickalene Thomas," they said.

She alleges Thomas promised her 20 percent commissions ¿ then 'illegally diverted' the money into her own company; seen in 2021

Thomas, who has been praised by celebrities like Alicia Keys and Jay-Z, has yet to respond to the allegations. But sources close to the artist have defended her, saying that Chevremont's claims are "baseless" and motivated by a desire for revenge.

Chevremont and Thomas's relationship was marked by controversy from the start. The two met in 2002 but didn't begin dating until 2011. They got engaged on New Year's Eve in 2019, but split just one year later. Chevremont has since moved on with her current fiancée, Mel Corpus.

Chevremont's own career is a testament to her talent and perseverance. A former Elite model and art world insider, she has worked with top brands like Benetton, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Fila, L'Oréal, and Nivea. She has also been involved in the acquisition committees of the Studio Museum in Harlem and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum since 2003.

According to GLAAD, Chevremont 'was discovered by photographer and model scout Steve Landis for Elite models in 1993'

But what's truly remarkable about Chevremont is her dedication to empowering queer Black women. As the founder of The Josie Club, a space dedicated to honoring their lives and achievements, she has become a role model for many in the LGBTQ+ community. In an interview with thescholarlynote.com, Chevremont revealed that she struggled with her queerness and publicly coming out, but ultimately found the courage to be true to herself.

"I'm what you'd call a later-in-life lesbian," she said. "When I first came out, I lost a lot of people. But I didn't care what anyone had to say. I was lucky to be in two industries where queerness is embraced."

Now, as Chevremont takes on Thomas in court, it remains to be seen how this scandal will play out. Will Thomas's reputation survive the allegations? Or will Chevremont's courage and determination bring about justice and change in the art world? One thing's for sure: this is a drama that's far from over.

UPDATE: Thescholarlynote.com has reached out to Thomas's representatives but has not received a response. Neither Thomas nor Chevremont's teams have publicly commented on the matter. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story!