The character Bonnie was inspired by Kyle Richards' own mother, Kathleen Mary Richards. The show is a fictionalized depiction of Kyle's upbringing, inspired by her mother but not an exact autobiographical reenactment of her life. For example, Kyle has two sisters (Kathy & Kim), whereas on the show, Bonnie only has two daughters. Bonnie's friend on the show was named after Kathleen Mary Richards, although she is not based on her. The character Kathleen represents female friends of Kyle Richards' mother.
This show continues Mena Suvari's habit of appearing in projects with the word "American" in the title: "American Pie", "American Pie 2", "American Beauty", "American Virgin", "American Horror Story", and "American Reunion."
Kyle Richards stated in 9.6 of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills that American Woman was not picked up for a second season. Kyle and her sister Kim were child stars.
American Woman is co-executive-produced by, and based on the life of, 'Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' star Kyle Richards.
The series reunites Alicia Silverstone with her Beauty Shop costar Mena Suvari, but in that film the two are involved in a huge fight while in this series they are best friends