Fans of Vanderpump Rules are still reacting to the recent arrest of James Kennedy for domestic violence. Since the news broke, much has come to light about his controlling behavior behind the scenes, and it seems that Bravo may have launched an investigation at some point. Now, his ex, Kristen Doute, is opening up about the situation and sharing her thoughts.
Fans will recall that Kristen and James dated from 2013 to 2015 while they were both on the show. Additionally, he was engaged to Rachel Leviss, and she has since come out and revealed that he was controlling during their relationship. She has said that she’s both vindicated by and sad about the news.
Recently, Kristen took to her podcast, Balancing Act with Kristen Doute and Luke Broderick, to briefly react to both James’ arrest and what Rachel had to say. She began, “Oh, my heart’s beating so fast as I’m talking about it.”
She then said, “So I do not speak to Rachel ‘Raquel’ Leviss at all. But I have read some things that she has been speaking out about. I think her rep was the first to speak out, and then she kind of has said some things as well.”
From there, she revealed that she “resonates” with some of Rachel’s recent comments regarding James despite disagreeing with some of her other antics. She explained, “And again, unpopular opinion, but I resonate very much with some of the things that Rachel has recently said. But I do want to say that me relating to her experience does not negate the fact that I do not support her lawsuit against Ariana. I still think that’s very ridiculous, but two things can be true at the same time.”
Kristen added, “Like two things can happen at the same time, and one does not have to do with the other. So I know, again, like I said, very little at this point about the James situation, and it’s for good reason. Something that Rachel said was that it is very heavy to reexamine, and I couldn’t agree more.”
The Valley star then admitted that hearing the news is very triggering for her based on some of the things she has experienced. Of course, Kristen is also pregnant, so she’s trying to remain calm, but listeners can clearly hear that she’s experiencing a range of emotions while discussing this troubling topic.
She added, “It is also very heavy to think about the too many moments that I lived, and it is all very triggering. Sorry. And I have battled with speaking out to help with my healing, but then also needing a break to maintain my peace in this pregnancy. So it’s really been a big battle between those two things. So I do have some things to say. I will address it soon.”
Kristen concluded, “And for just now, I want to say, James Kennedy, domestic abuse is not a challenging moment. Okay. And to Ally, I hope that you have all of the support that you deserve. So that is all. Switching gears.”
She also referenced the statement James recently released, in which he said, “I am committed to making meaningful changes in my life. I am taking time to focus on my sobriety, personal growth, and being present for my loved ones. Navigating challenging moments is not easy, but I am determined to learn, grow, and move forward.”
Fans can listen to Balancing Act on all platforms.