Summer House costars Amanda Batula and West Wilson are speaking out after “speculation” about their relationship status.
“We’ve seen the growing online speculation, so while this is still very new, we wanted to provide some clarity,” read an Instagram statement on Tuesday, March 31. “It was never our intention to purposely hide anything. Given the complicated relationship dynamics involved and the scrutiny that comes with being on a reality show, we needed a little space to process things privately before speaking on it.”
Batula, 34, and Wilson, 31, continued to address how their relationship changed.
“We’ve shown up for each other as friends over the years, through all the highs and lows, and what’s developed recently was the last thing either of us expected,” they continued. “Our connection grew out of a genuine, longstanding friendship, which made it especially important for us to approach this with care.”
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The statement concluded: “As our feelings evolved, we wanted to take time to understand exactly what we were feeling. We also recognize that this has had an impact beyond just us and never wanted our actions to cause any hurt or be perceived as careless. We truly appreciate the understanding and respect as we navigate this.”
Rumors started to swirl earlier this week that Batula and Wilson were secretly hooking up amid her split from husband Kyle Cooke.
“After much reflection, we have mutually and amicably decided to part ways as a couple,” they announced via Instagram in January. “We share this with a heavy heart and kindly ask for your grace and support while we focus on our personal growth and healing.”
The speculation also led to some Bravo fans assuming Batula had a falling out with friend and costar Ciara Miller, who previously had an off-and-on relationship with Wilson.
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Before Batula confirmed her romance with Wilson, she ruled out finding love with a costar.
“It’s not going to happen. I’m not touching any of my cast members,” Amanda clarified during a March episode of Jason Tartick’s “Trading Secrets” podcast. “Love them dearly, but I’m good.”
Batula also reflected on moving on after ending her marriage to Cooke, 43, telling Marie Claire earlier this month that she felt like she is “on cloud nine” and “unstoppable.”
“I am manifesting a boyfriend, but just a boyfriend. No one who’s looking for anything serious,” Batula shared, adding that she wanted to “have fun” with someone her “age or younger,” since she’s “always dated older.”