In an extreme moment of vulnerability during season 10, episode 7 of “Summer House,” the cast had a deeply profound discussion about race and privilege, prompting longtime castmate Kyle Cooke to publicly thank his co-stars for having the “much needed conversation.”
The topic arose at dinner when Ciara Miller opened up about the “blowback” she’s received from having an interracial relationship with West Wilson. Miller placed emphasis on the embarrassment of being played by Wilson and how, as a Black woman in the media, she has to deal with the disappointment around not being in a relationship with a Black man.
‘Summer House’ Cast Has Raw Conversation About Race & Privilege
That’s when newcomer KJ Dillard nearly broke into tears at the table as he explained the pressure he feels as the first Black man to be cast on “Summer House.” He explained that he feels the need to take extra caution on what he says and does to prevent false narratives about who he is.
Mia Calabrese, who is also new to “Summer House,” chimed in with her support, saying that as a sister with brothers of color, she knows firsthand how differently Black men are treated. Calabrese noted that her parents had to sit her brothers down to discuss privilege with them at a young age to encourage them to be extra respectful to others and those of authority.
The raw moment between the cast prompted Cooke, an original cast member of “Summer House,” to publicly celebrate his castmates for their deep moment of honesty.
Cooke shared his thoughts on his Instagram on Wednesday, March 18, where he showed support for Miller, Dillard and Calabrese by saying that although he might not be able to stand in their shoes, he understands their truth and thanks each of them for having a positive impact on anyone who may relate to what they have experienced.
Kyle Cooke Thanks Ciara, KJ & Mia for Their Brave Vulnerability
“I want to thank Ciara, KJ and Mia for being courageous enough to have an incredibly difficult but much needed conversation about race and privilege on a predominantly white TV network,” Cooke wrote. “There’s no way I can come close to relating or understanding what it’s like to be in their skin, but thanks to their honesty and willingness to open up and shed light on what they have to go through and think about in front of the camera and in life.”
“I’m just so thankful to call them my friends and learn from them. Even though we are filming the same show and being asked to do the same thing, their experience is different than mine and they face such harsh criticism and backlash — a microcosm of what it’s like to Black in America,” he continued. “I’m so proud of them for being brave enough to do this on a show that revolves around partying in one of the most privileged zip codes in the world, watched by a predominantly white audience.”
“Thank you to our cast, crew and Bravo for creating a safe place – hopefully we can continue to tackle tough topics in real, relatable ways, because that’s what reality TV should be about,” Cooke added. “So much ❤️ respect @ciaramiller_ @kellyjustindillard @miagcalabrese.”
Fans jumped into Cooke’s Instagram comments to applaud “Summer House” for fostering genuine friendships that allow such raw moments to be had and shared.
“Last night’s episode is exactly why Summer House will always be @bravotv’s most superior show 👏👏👏,” wrote one.
“This is the best show on tv right now & the reasons why are for so much more than the partying 🤎🖤 ,” said another.
“One thing about Kyle, you lock in when it’s an important conversation with Ciara & we will always appreciate it!!” added a third.
