Dara Levitan, a former beauty content creator, has become a standout on the reality TV show Summer House. Her journey to stardom is intertwined with her ex-boyfriend, West Wilson, who joined the show in Season 8. Levitan's presence on the show, however, was not without concerns, especially regarding her dynamic with Ciara Miller, another cast member who had previously dated Wilson. In an exclusive interview with DECIDER, Levitan opens up about her initial worries and the eventual close bond she formed with Miller.
A Complex History
Levitan's relationship with Wilson ended six months ago, and she was hesitant about joining Summer House due to the potential overlap with Miller's history with Wilson. She explains, "I knew West and I's history and as innocent and innocuous as it is, sometimes timelines are misunderstood and things are exacerbated. But I just figured, we know that all sides of the street are clean. So any of those qualms, any of those worries, I just figured all I have to do is be honest, keep calm, and they'll be able to see what my intentions are, which had nothing to do with pining for him."
Overcoming Concerns
Despite her initial reservations, Levitan's transition into the Summer House family was smooth. She describes her experience with Miller as positive, stating, "She was lovely. I think that she’s such a pro and she knows how things work and that there’s so many complicated relationships that do come in and are looking to have a good time. I think as soon as she picked up what I was putting down a little bit, she was like, ‘What is there to be tense or weird about?’ And she ended up, by the end of the summer, being one of the women that I enjoyed confiding in the most."
The Dynamics of Romance
Levitan also shares her perspective on the fans' desire for Wilson and Miller to rekindle their romance. She acknowledges the complexity of their situation, saying, "I think it’s hard, because they are in the midst of a complicated dynamic where they’re trying to figure out their feelings, trying not to be disrespectful to one another and step on toes. Candidly, I’m not sure how it feels for them to see all of that support and that excitement."
Levitan's insight highlights the challenges of navigating past relationships within a reality TV setting. She concludes, "Me being around them and seeing them on nights out having that dynamic and having that connection and the chemistry, it’s only natural that you’re side-eyeing and wondering. So, it’s only fair."
As Levitan's journey on Summer House continues, her ability to navigate complex relationships and her growing bond with Miller will undoubtedly keep viewers engaged. The show airs on Tuesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Bravo, with new episodes available to stream the next day on Peacock.