When Vanderpump Rules stars Raquel Leviss and James Kennedy announced their breakup, fans were shocked, but Raquel recently shed light on how she came to her decision. The two were together for five years, and there were definitely a lot of challenges in their relationship. Viewers watched as James frequently caused rifts in his friendships, thanks to his sharp tongue and explosive temper, and his outbursts were exacerbated by his drinking. He eventually got sober, but his anger issues remained a problem.
Although Raquel and James’ breakup came as a surprise to fans, there may have been clues on Vanderpump Rules that their relationship was starting to crack. When Raquel got a nose job that was less-than-perfect, she contemplated getting it redone. Then, James made it all about him by asking her not to do it because he might not like the result. Raquel was also afraid to tell people that her nose might not have healed correctly because James had bumped it after coming in too hard for a kiss. Viewers, as well as Lisa Vanderpump, questioned if she was telling the truth. There were people who assumed the worst, wondering if her nose had been injured because James got physical with her.
While chatting while guesting on Vanderpump Rules star Scheana Shay’s podcast, “Scheananigans with Scheana Shay,” Raquel made it clear that the nose bump was just an accident. However, she explained that there were several factors that led her to end her engagement with James. While spending Thanksgiving with Raquel’s family this year, James got into an argument with her father. James from VPR lost his temper and Raquel had to leave with him, which led her to think about future holidays with him. She found herself constantly having to make excuses for him to her family. She envisioned having to choose between James and her family, which led to the realization that she didn’t want to be with him anymore.
When the couple watched episodes of the show together to prepare for the reunion, it further cemented Raquel’s decision. She realized that James hadn’t been supporting her emotionally for a long time. She had to look back at the way he treated people and told him that a part of her died every time he was mean to someone. James’ repeated bad behavior made Raquel question if he was willing to do the work to change for the better. James begged her for another chance but Raquel told him that she had given him countless chances. Ultimately, her heart just wasn’t in it anymore.
Raquel has been dealing with the breakup by going to therapy and reflecting on her life. When she was asked about what she wanted in a partner, she said that she is looking for someone who treats people with kindness and respect, has a good sense of humor, and gets along with her family. She wants an emotionally supportive partner that she can trust, and doesn't want her boyfriend to be the jealous type. Although Raquel isn’t looking for love right now, when she is ready to date, Vanderpump Rules fans are certain that she'll find a person who's really right for her.
Source: Sheananigans with Scheana Shay