Ally Lewber recounted her ordeal after James Kennedy's arrest, shedding light on Lisa Vanderpump's pressure to get Lewber to stay with Kennedy and the emotional toll it took on her.
- April 10, 2025
AceShowbiz - Ally Lewber, a recent addition to the cast of "Vanderpump Rules," talked about the turmoil behind the scenes after then-boyfriend James Kennedy was arrested for alleged domestic violence.
In a candid discussion, Lewber dished on how Lisa Vanderpump, the show's matriarch, had tried to convince her to stay with ex-boyfriend James Kennedy following the December 2024 incident, which occurred after Kennedy relapsed on alcohol, breaking the non-negotiable rule in their relationship.
During an interview on the "Viall Files" podcast, Lewber, 29, described the peculiar call she received from Vanderpump. "She called me, and she did make sure, like, 'Are you OK?' I mean, this was, like, two months later," she shared.
Vanderpump, described as "motherly" and "very protective over James," urged Lewber to travel with Kennedy on his DJ shows, despite them having broken up.
"I'm like, 'First of all, what shows? He's canceled right now. And also, no? I just moved into an apartment. We're not together,' " Lewber recounted, remarking on how Vanderpump's insistence left her feeling "weak in the moment" and questioning her decision.
Vanderpump also emphasized that both she and Kennedy had been drinking that night, trying to downplay the severity of the incident.
After discovering Kennedy had been drinking at Kathy Hilton's Christmas party, an argument ensued during their car ride home, eventually escalating outside their home, which led to the police being called. Despite the dramatic events, Lewber maintained she "was not hurt physically," though emotionally scarred.
Vanderpump's alleged attempts to convince Lewber to stay with Kennedy have sparked controversy, especially given past abuse claims from Kennedy's exes, Rachel Leviss and Kristen Doute.
Lewber admitted that she now more fully believes their allegations, stating, "I always believe women, and I do feel kinda guilty … Sometimes it is like, 'Oh, they were right.' " She admitted her relationship with Kennedy was "very toxic" on both sides.
Since the incident, Kennedy has publicly committed to focusing on his sobriety and personal growth. Lewber, reflecting on her relationship, revealed that she realized their connection "wasn't real" because Kennedy had been "lying" about his sobriety.
She now seeks to find someone "whole and complete" and is looking to take things slow in future relationships.
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).