Amanda Batula, known for her role on Bravo’s hit series “Summer House,” will not be returning for the upcoming eleventh season. According to a source who spoke to PEOPLE, the 34-year-old reality star’s departure follows her introduction to the series in 2017 and the development of her storyline over the past few seasons.
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Batula became a staple of “Summer House” starting in its second season and has been part of many key storylines, particularly concerning her relationships. Her exit comes in tandem with that of West Wilson, her fellow cast member and recent romantic partner. The two confirmed their relationship in March but will both miss the next season of filming.
Wilson, who made his “Summer House” debut in season eight, has also acknowledged his own exit from the series. In a recent TikTok video featuring fellow creator Lucas Brody, he confirmed he will not return, stating, “That is true. But in their defence, I don’t think it would have been a fun summer.” This comment has raised eyebrows about the circumstances surrounding both departures.
Adding to the drama, Batula and Wilson’s relationship has drawn scrutiny, particularly because Wilson was previously linked to cast member Ciara Miller. Miller’s emotional response during the recently concluded season 10 reunion highlighted the complicated dynamic amongst the trio. She conveyed her frustration with Batula’s relationship, indicating that she felt betrayed given her long-standing friendship with Batula.
The tension was further exemplified during the reunion when Miller revealed, “Over the past six years, I have been your f—ing champion. I couldn’t fathom that I would be sitting here pissed that you’re f—ing my ex.” It’s clear that the fallout from these relationships has impacted the group dynamic and may have played a part in Batula and Wilson’s decision to step away from the show.
The show’s executive, Josh Brown, shared his thoughts on potential future cast changes during an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. While particularly praising Miller’s individuality, he also indicated uncertainty about her continuing involvement with “Summer House.” “I can’t really comment on her coming back,” he noted, before expressing a desire for her happiness and well-being, whether associated with the show or not.
Miller has remained busy since the reunion, recently joining Tefi Pessoa as a co-host on the “Love Island USA” companion series, “Aftersun,” on Peacock. She is also set to showcase her talents on this season of ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars,” indicating a bright future ahead outside of the controversies surrounding “Summer House.”
Batula and Wilson had shared details about their relationship timeline in the reunion, revealing their first kiss occurred in February, followed by their decision to go public in March. However, tensions have clearly altered the group dynamic, leaving fans speculating about who will fill the gaps as the series progresses.
Kyle Cooke, Batula’s ex-husband and a key figure in the series, expressed his ongoing struggle to process the situation in his first interview after the reunion. He admitted to PEOPLE that witnessing their relationship feels surreal, highlighting the complex friendship bonds within the cast. “This is just not something I can fathom doing to anybody that’s close to me,” he remarked, suggesting that the ramifications of their relationships are deeply felt beyond the on-screen narratives.
With the eleventh season of “Summer House” on the horizon, fans are left to wonder how the absence of both Batula and Wilson will reshape the show. The evolving narratives and interpersonal relationships among the remaining cast members will certainly set the stage for a different dynamic in the upcoming episodes.