Rachel “Raquel” Leviss’s recent statements about her past relationship with James Kennedy have ignited discussions about abuse and coercive control. Sparked by Kennedy’s arrest for misdemeanor domestic violence, Leviss reshared a 2018 Instagram post detailing the complexities of abusive relationships. Her message underscored the confusion and self-doubt that victims experience, often clinging to the hope of their partner’s potential for change while minimizing the abuse they endure. This resonated with her current emotional state, describing a mix of vindication, sadness, and brokenness. Leviss emphasized the importance of addressing such issues openly rather than sweeping them under the rug, pointing to her own podcast as a platform where she delves into her experiences with coercive control and her journey towards overcoming its effects.
Leviss’s relationship with Kennedy, which lasted from 2016 to 2021 and played out on Bravo’s Vanderpump Rules, ended with a broken engagement announced during the season 9 reunion. Initially, the split was attributed to Kennedy’s strained relationship with Leviss’s family. However, a subsequent appearance on Scheana Shay’s podcast hinted at deeper issues, with Leviss admitting to making excuses for Kennedy’s behavior. Her later revelation of a cheating scandal with Tom Sandoval and her subsequent entry into a mental health facility added another layer of complexity to the narrative. This time in treatment provided Leviss with the tools to reassess her past relationships, including the one with Kennedy, allowing her to gain a clearer perspective on the dynamics at play.
On her own podcast, “Rachel Goes Rogue,” Leviss revealed the previously undisclosed details surrounding her breakup with Kennedy, she described planning to leave the engagement ring and leave while Kennedy was in Europe, fearing for her safety. She admitted to withholding the true reasons for the split at the time, protecting Kennedy’s reputation, but the suppressed truth manifested in a panic attack. This revelation cast a new light on the seemingly amicable breakup portrayed on Vanderpump Rules. The panic attack, she explained, was a result of the internal conflict of wanting to share her story but fearing the repercussions. The weight of this undisclosed narrative became unbearable, culminating in a physical manifestation of her anxiety.
Kennedy’s December 2023 arrest for domestic violence brought these past issues back into the public eye. Police were called to Kennedy’s home following reports of a loud argument between a man and a woman. Witnesses reported seeing Kennedy grabbing the woman, although no visible injuries were observed at the time. Following his release on bail, Kennedy issued a statement focusing on personal growth and sobriety, making no mention of Leviss’s allegations. This silence has further fueled speculation about the nature of their past relationship. Kennedy’s current girlfriend, Ally Lewber, has also been drawn into the narrative, with questions arising about the impact of these revelations on their relationship.
Leviss’s decision to speak out about her experiences with Kennedy aligns with a broader cultural shift towards greater transparency and accountability regarding abusive relationships. Her willingness to share her story, even amidst personal turmoil, underscores the importance of validating victims’ experiences and challenging the societal pressures that often silence them. By publicly discussing coercive control and the subtle ways abuse can manifest, Leviss contributes to a crucial conversation about relationship dynamics and the often-hidden signs of unhealthy patterns. This openness can empower others in similar situations to recognize the signs of abuse and seek help.
The ongoing situation highlights the complex and often-hidden nature of abuse, demonstrating how seemingly amicable relationships can conceal deeper issues. Leviss’s story serves as a reminder that victims often prioritize the well-being and reputation of their abusers, delaying or preventing them from sharing their experiences. Her journey underscores the importance of seeking support and utilizing available resources to process trauma and reclaim one’s voice. As the narrative continues to unfold, the focus remains on Leviss’s path towards healing and her advocacy for greater awareness surrounding the complexities of abusive relationships.
