Reality TV pioneers Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie's journey from "The Simple Life" to their latest venture, a three-part opera special, is a testament to their enduring friendship and evolving career paths. Their parents, initially hesitant about their daughters' foray into reality television, now express pride and excitement for their new project.

Kathy Hilton, Paris's mother, initially envisioned a different path for her daughter, hoping she'd pursue veterinary studies. However, she now fondly recalls "The Simple Life" as groundbreaking and hilarious, acknowledging her initial misgivings. Lionel Richie, Nicole's father, also expressed early concerns, particularly about the girls' unconventional antics on the show. He now humorously refers to them as a force to be reckoned with, bracing himself for their latest endeavor.

Both daughters admit their parents were against their participation in "The Simple Life." The show, which premiered in 2003, documented their experiences living and working on a rural Arkansas farm, devoid of their usual luxuries. It became a cultural phenomenon, paving the way for future reality series like "Keeping Up with the Kardashians." While the show catapulted them to stardom, it also subjected them to intense media scrutiny, which both Hilton and Richie now reflect upon as a challenging period.

Twenty years later, the duo has reunited for "Paris & Nicole: The Encore" on Peacock. The special revisits their time in Altus, Arkansas, including a memorable incident involving bleach and a pool table. However, the core of the special revolves around their ambitious goal of creating an opera based on a childhood inside joke, "Sanasa." This unexpected artistic pursuit showcases their evolution beyond reality TV, demonstrating a desire to explore new creative avenues.

The series follows their collaboration with composers, singers, and other professionals to bring their opera to life in just three weeks. This unique project, far from a typical reunion special, highlights their enduring bond and willingness to embrace unconventional challenges. Their families, initially skeptical of their reality TV journey, are now fully supportive of their artistic endeavors, recognizing their growth and dynamic partnership.

"Paris & Nicole: The Encore" is currently available for streaming on Peacock.