Summer House Star Dara Levitan Reveals Why She Chose KJ Over Ben, Weighs In on Ciara’s Love Triangle, and Addresses Rumors of OG Cast Exit

Dara Levitan is opening up about her whirlwind entrance into the Summer House Season 10 cast and setting the record straight on several hot topics.

In recent interviews with Page Six’s Virtual Reali-Tea and Decider, the beauty influencer addressed her decision to pursue KJ Dillard instead of Ben Waddell, shared her thoughts on Ciara Miller’s complicated love triangle, praised Lindsay Hubbard’s no-filter personality, and responded to rumors that the original cast members may be transitioning to a new spinoff called In the City.

Why Dara Chose KJ Over Ben

Dara admitted that while she initially had some chemistry with Ben, something about KJ stood out to her right away.

“There was something different about [KJ] for me,” Dara explained. “He was a little bit more soft-spoken [and] led forward with this very kind, warm energy. When he gets feedback he does not get defensive or lead out with ego; he really cares about how people are feeling.”

She described KJ as “a man written by a woman” and confirmed that things are still going strong between them, calling him “wonderful.”

This revelation comes after significant early-season drama. In Episode 8, Bailey’s rumor that Dara had spent an hour in Ben’s room triggered KJ’s panic attack, forcing Dara to confront the accusation head-on and defend her interest in KJ (as we covered in our previous article: Bailey Strikes Again: Her Accusation About Dara & Ben Sends KJ Into a Panic Attack).

Dara’s Take on Ciara’s Love Triangle

Dara weighed in on the lingering tension between Ciara Miller, her ex West Wilson, and Jesse Solomon. She believes Ciara and West share a “special” connection, but thinks West is still stuck in limbo.

“I think that’s the limbo he continues to fight through,” Dara said.

She also addressed Jesse’s desire for a “jokey makeout” with Ciara, suggesting it stems from “male ego” and fear of rejection. Dara offered straightforward advice: “If you’re having a conversation about wanting to be more than friends, just say your feelings.”

Her comments add new perspective to the flirtation that began during the iconic Spin the Bottle game in Episode 7 and continued through West’s apology to Ciara.

High Praise for Lindsay Hubbard

Dara declared herself the “number one leader of the Lindsay Hubbard fan club,” praising the OG cast member’s direct and unfiltered style.

“I love that you know exactly where you stand with her,” Dara said. “She’s asking the questions straight out… What better way to be?”

On the Future of Summer House & ‘In the City’ Spinoff Rumors

Dara also touched on the rumor that newer cast members could eventually take over Summer House as the original stars (Kyle, Amanda, Lindsay, Ciara, Carl, etc.) move to a new spinoff called In the City.

While acknowledging that the OGs are the “backbone” of the show, Dara remained optimistic about the future:

“I think there’s absolutely a world in which [Summer House] has a future moving forward looking a little bit different, including a little bit of a different group. But I think the OGs did an incredible job of building this show up to be evergreen.”

She revealed that her ex, West Wilson, was the one who recommended her for the show after they matched on Hinge. Dara admitted she had intense therapy sessions before accepting the opportunity because she likes to “control the narrative,” but ultimately decided to put herself out there.

Where Things Stand Now

With Kyle and Amanda’s marriage still under heavy scrutiny following Kyle’s explosive outburst in Episode 8 (as detailed in our earlier coverage: Kyle’s Shocking Meltdown – Is This the Beginning of the End?), and Ciara continuing to navigate her feelings toward West, Dara’s fresh insights provide a newcomer’s perspective on the shifting dynamics inside the house.

As Season 10 continues to heat up, Dara’s honesty and positive outlook on both her romance with KJ and the show’s future have made her one of the most refreshing additions this year.

Summer House airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on Bravo and streams the next day on Peacock.