Rebecca Minkoff's RHONY castmates rally around her as they film scenes for the show's new season

Rebecca Minkoff's Real Housewives of New York City castmates are showing their support for the fashion designer following backlash over her connection to the Church of Scientology.

The 43-year-old, who is a high level Scientologist, was pictured in a sprinter van with some of her new co-stars as they filmed a 'gal's trip' for the show's upcoming 17th season.

A photo of the fun moment was shared to social media by Erin Lichy.

Rebecca was sitting in the back of the van with Brynn Whitfield, while Erin was in the front seat sandwiched between Ubah Hassan and Jenna Lyons. 

The group seemed to be having an incredible time filming, with Jenna and Erin both giggling and smiling in the image. 

Rebecca Minkoff's Real Housewives of New York City castmates are showing their support for the fashion designer following backlash over her connection to the Church of Scientology

The 43-year-old, who is a high level Scientologist, was pictured in a sprinter van with some of her new co-stars as they filmed a 'gal's trip' for the show's upcoming 17th season

Rebecca later shared a short video of herself modelling her outfit for the girl's trip, which received gushing comments from both Erin and Sai De Silva.

It comes as Rebecca has faced some backlash from fans after Dailymail.com uncovered her deep ties to Scientology. 

Not only is the fashionista and her entire family longtime members of the church and big money donors, her father was also implicated in the tragic death of Lisa McPherson.

A number of RHONY fans have expressed their disappointment over Minkoff joining the new season, with one writing, 'Please don't cast a Scientologist!'

Another wrote, 'I know many are excited about Rebecca Minkoff joining #RHONY, I'm not. She's a known Scientologist...'

However, some viewers have expressed their excitement at a potentially juicy storyline involving the controversial church. 

'Streets trying to "expose" Rebecca Minkoff for being a scientologist like that's not literally the reason why I'm gonna stan her,' posted one fan. 

Rebecca's family are devout Scientologists who have donated millions to the church. (Minkoff is pictured with Danny Masterson)

Some RHONY fans have complained about the show's decision to cast a Scientologist 

'Regardless of her Scientology cult, I’m tuning in. Brynn or Ubah better grill her about it,' gushed another. 

While fans are no doubt anticipating an explosive Scientology subplot next season, there's no guarantee that it will even be featured on the show.

Viewers may have to make do with enjoying Minkoff's impeccable wardrobe instead of diving into her religion. 

Bravo has already given fellow fashion designer-turned-Real Housewife Jenna Lyons special privileges to keep her relationship with partner Cass Bird off the show. 

'I have a relationship, but I would like to not name her,' Lyons told the New York Times.

'I want to keep her out of the press. That is my commitment to her. It’s off the table. I joined this process. She did not.'

Ubah Hassan also kept her romance with Oliver Dachsel off the show last season and even portrayed herself as single on screen.