After weeks of speculation and social media buzz, "Summer House" stars Amanda Batula and West Wilson have officially confirmed they’re more than just friends—and they’re addressing the situation carefully.
The pair shared a joint statement on Instagram Stories on March 31, acknowledging the rumors while asking for privacy as they navigate their new relationship.
“We've seen the growing online speculation, so while this is still very new, we wanted to provide some clarity,” they wrote. “It was never our intention to purposely hide anything.”
Batula, 34, and Wilson, 28, explained that the situation is complicated, especially given their history and the dynamics within their reality TV circle. “Given the complicated relationship dynamics involved and the scrutiny that comes with being on a reality show, we need a little space to process things privately before speaking on it,” they added.
According to the two, their relationship didn’t start as anything romantic. Instead, it developed over time out of a strong friendship. “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 shared. “Our connection grew out of a genuine, long-standing friendship.”
They also made it clear they’ve been mindful of how their relationship might affect others. “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,” they said, adding that they appreciate “understanding and respect” as they figure things out.
The confirmation comes after weeks of fan chatter, which picked up steam following a cryptic Instagram post from Southern Charm star Austen Kroll. He shared a dinner photo with the caption, “Pasta and f— your friends exes are apparently so back,” leading many fans to connect the dots.
Rumors had already been circulating earlier in March, with reports claiming the two were “openly flirty.” Still, Wilson publicly denied any romance just days before their announcement.
Appearing on "Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen" on March 24, Wilson insisted their relationship was strictly platonic. “We were just hanging out in New York. She’s single, I gotta show her the streets a little bit,” he said. He doubled down when pressed, calling Batula his “homegirl” and adding, “That’s a friend. I hope it’s clear.”
Batula’s ex-husband, Kyle Cooke, also weighed in earlier in the month, calling the rumors “kinda shocking” and “outrageous.” While he said he didn’t think there was “any merit” to the speculation at the time, he admitted it would feel “a little reckless” if true. Still, he struck a supportive tone, saying, “But if it made Amanda happy, I think I just would have to vote yay.”
The situation has also sparked reactions among their co-stars, with some fans speculating about possible tension—especially given Wilson’s past relationship with Ciara Miller and her friendship with Batula.
For now, Batula and Wilson are keeping things low-key, choosing to focus on understanding their relationship rather than fueling more headlines. As they put it, this new chapter is something they “wanted to take time to understand”—and they’re hoping others will give them the space to do just that.
