Kyle Richards Honors Teddi Mellencamp’s Strength in Touching Birthday Tribute

Kyle Richards is celebrating her best friend’s birthday with a message full of love and admiration.

“The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star took to Instagram on July 1 to honor longtime friend and fellow Bravolebrity Teddi Mellencamp on her 44th birthday.

A Birthday Filled With Gratitude and Friendship

Richards posted a touching carousel of photos capturing years of friendship, including moments of the two traveling, relaxing, and sharing laughs.

“I am so incredibly grateful that you were placed in my life,” she wrote. “We shared an instant bond that is so rare and special.”

In her tribute, Richards also addressed Mellencamp’s ongoing battle with Stage 4 melanoma, which has included tumors on her lungs and brain. Since her diagnosis, Mellencamp has remained candid, frequently sharing updates on her ongoing health journey via social media.

“This last year you’ve shown so many what real strength and faith is,” Richards wrote. “I am in total awe of you.”

She concluded the caption with a touching message: “I love you and am honored to walk through all life’s ups and downs with you. May ALL your wishes come true Ted.”

The emotional post drew a response from Mellencamp herself, who commented, “Tears. Mexico soon.”

Reflecting on a New Year of Life

Mellencamp also marked her 44th birthday with her own Instagram posts. Sharing a cozy photo of herself cuddling in bed with her three children—Slate, Dove, and Cruz, whom she shares with ex-husband Edwin Arroyave—she reflected on the past year.

“43 was pretty rough, but couldn’t ask for a better start to 44 with world’s best cuddlers,” she captioned the photo.

In the days leading up to her birthday, Mellencamp celebrated with close friends over “linner” at Larsen’s Steakhouse in Encino, including Real Housewives of Orange County star and Two T’s in A Pod co-host Tamra Judge. The group enjoyed a horse-themed cake and surprised her with a peach-colored Labubu collectible named “Happiness.”

“It’s always a special birthday when I get to spend it with my girls…but this one was extra special because I GOT MY FIRST LABUBU,” she wrote in another post. “And don’t you worry, I got cute little outfits coming its way.”

As Mellencamp continues to navigate her health journey, support from her inner circle—including Richards—remains a steady presence. Their enduring friendship, documented over the years on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” has become one of the franchise’s most genuine bonds.