TMZ Exclusive Video Shows RHOA Star Confident Amid $6,000 Monthly Income Disclosure in Chapter 11 Filing
In a striking display of resilience, The Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA) star and Slutty Vegan founder Pinky Cole is refusing to let public scrutiny of her finances get her down.
TMZ dropped an exclusive street interview on June 27, 2026, capturing the entrepreneur in New York City, where she appeared relaxed, smiling, and optimistic despite court documents revealing her listed monthly income as just $6,000 during her ongoing Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings.
Pinky Cole Unfazed by Bankruptcy
The video, shared via TMZ’s official account, shows Cole in a stylish black halter dress with short blonde hair, gesturing animatedly and exuding confidence as she addresses questions about her “dire financial situation.”
READ: Atlanta restaurateur Pinky Cole faces bankruptcy
According to TMZ, she emphasized that her flagship business, Slutty Vegan, is performing strongly and that she is actively turning it into a franchise operation. She reportedly offered a candid perspective on her circumstances, noting variations in financial hardship with a quip along the lines of “my broke and your broke is a different kind of broke.”
The Financial Details from Court Filings
Earlier in June 2026, TMZ obtained and reported on legal documents from Cole’s Chapter 11 case, filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Georgia. In a proposed plan of reorganization, she listed her monthly income at $6,000.
Read: Judge moves to seize Punky Cole’s home in bankruptcy
The accompanying budget breakdown paints a picture of tight personal finances:
- $200 on children’s expenses
- $800 on groceries
- $80 on gas
- $300 on medical costs
- $1,574 in Georgia state taxes
- $1,343 in federal taxes
This leaves roughly $1,500 per month in disposable income after essential outlays.
Cole originally filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in February 2026 to reorganize significant debts. Initial filings showed approximately $1.4 million in liabilities, including a $1.2 million obligation to the U.S. Small Business Administration (tied to a COVID-era loan) and about $192,000 owed to the Georgia Department of Revenue in taxes. Later amendments increased the reported total debt, with some updates citing figures approaching or exceeding $4 million as more creditors were detailed.
Chapter 11 bankruptcy allows debtors to restructure obligations while continuing business operations — a strategic move often used by entrepreneurs facing temporary setbacks rather than a sign of total collapse.
Who Is Pinky Cole?
Aisha “Pinky” Cole built Slutty Vegan into a cult-favorite plant-based fast-casual chain known for its bold flavors, indulgent vegan “burgers,” and unapologetic branding. Starting in Atlanta, the concept expanded to multiple locations nationwide, becoming a cultural staple in Black and vegan communities alike.
Cole joined the RHOA cast in a recent season, bringing her entrepreneurial energy and larger-than-life personality to the Bravo spotlight.
Despite the personal financial reorganization, Slutty Vegan locations remain operational, and Cole has expressed plans to grow the brand further through franchising.
Public Reaction and Context
Social media reactions to the TMZ video and filings have been largely supportive. Many fans and observers praise Cole’s transparency, positive attitude, and focus on business recovery. Comments highlight her glowing appearance in the interview and note that bankruptcy filings (especially Chapter 11) are common tools for business owners navigating challenges like post-pandemic recovery, loans, and taxes — not necessarily an indicator of personal ruin.
Some online discussions clarify that the $6,000 figure represents income listed in her name for the reorganization plan and may not reflect total household or business revenue streams.
Looking Ahead
Cole’s unbothered demeanor in the TMZ clip sends a clear message: she is treating this as one chapter in a longer story of building and rebuilding. With Slutty Vegan reportedly thriving and franchising on the horizon, the entrepreneur appears poised to emerge stronger.
As her bankruptcy case progresses through the reorganization plan, updates on creditor agreements and business performance will likely continue to surface. For now, Pinky Cole is reminding everyone that resilience, transparency, and a strong brand can coexist with financial restructuring — and that “broke” looks different depending on the lens.
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