KJ Dillard, a rising star on Bravo’s reality series *Summer House*, has opened up about the challenges he faced during a recent romantic split from Dara Levitan. The couple’s temporary breakup coincided with a period of significant emotional and financial distress for Dillard, following the conclusion of the show’s tenth season.
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In a candid conversation on the *More Life With Carl Radke* podcast, KJ reflected on how his struggle with mental health affected his relationship. “A lot of people are supportive, and I’m thankful for them. But then, a lot of people are hating,” he said, highlighting the dual nature of public attention. Viewers watched Dillard, 28, and Levitan, 33, develop a strong bond during the season, initially brought together by their co-star West Wilson. Despite acknowledging the strain on his friendship with Wilson after the introduction, Dillard expressed appreciation for the match.
The reality star described how the aftermath of filming left him in quite a precarious situation. “Pre-show, nothing was really going on for me. Modeling was slow. I’d taken a break during the summer to focus on the show,” he explained. Financial difficulties added to his emotional struggles, which had a direct impact on his relationship with Levitan, leading him to unconsciously take his frustrations out on her.
Dillard’s emotional turmoil became particularly visible during part one of the *Summer House* season 10 reunion, where he admitted to being hospitalised for self-harm—a moment that left him visibly emotional. “I was there for a week. Mia [Calabrese] and Ciara [Miller] were there almost every day,” he recalled, thanking his supportive friends for standing by him during that challenging time. He shared that the journey towards recovery required significant introspection, which had not always been part of his approach to life’s challenges.
Now undergoing therapy and prescribed medication, KJ articulated a sense of gratitude for overcoming such trials. “I’m grateful that I’m here alive because I could have not been,” he expressed earnestly, acknowledging the support he received in various forms from his friends and the audience. Dillard also voiced appreciation for the positive responses from viewers regarding his openness about mental health issues, emphasising the importance of being honest about personal struggles.
In an emotionally charged moment at the reunion, KJ was embraced by castmate Jesse Solomon, who expressed his concern, saying, “I feel for you. I’m glad you’re good because I don’t want anyone to go through that.” The atmosphere of camaraderie was palpable, with Radke also voicing his continued support for Dillard’s future endeavours.
Despite the temporary nature of the breakup, KJ remains hopeful about the strength of his relationship with Dara, stating, “We do a good job at not letting [the public] tear us apart.” He expressed a firm understanding of what both he and Levitan want from their future together, labelling their challenges as part of a deeper love story that is worth navigating.
*Summer House*, airing on Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET on Bravo and available for streaming the following day on Peacock, remains a focal point for both Dillard and Levitan as they navigate their relationship amid personal challenges and public scrutiny.
As KJ continues to advocate for mental health awareness, he urges anyone facing similar struggles to reach out for help. He notes that there are resources available for individuals in crisis, emphasising the importance of community and support in overcoming hurdles. If you or someone you know needs assistance, it is vital to reach out to services such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.