It's supposed to be a TV series about Los Angeles' biggest and most beautiful homes - but the people selling them often steal the show. And the latest episodes of Netflix reality series Selling Sunset, now in its ninth season, have started a debate about how to deal with a friend's 'toxic' partner.
Two stars of the programme - real estate agents Chrishell Stause and Emma Hernan - have been feuding on and off-camera over Emma's boyfriend Blake Davis, who Chrishell dislikes. It boiled over during an end-of-season reunion and led to online debates about how, or even whether, you can stay friends with someone whose partner you dislike.
We've spoken to a woman with first-hand experience of that dilemma and two relationship experts about what to do in this tricky situation.
In the show, Stause claims she's never approved of Hernan's relationship with property developer Davis, attributing it to 'love-bombing' and red flags. Hernan, on the other hand, feels Stause is overstepping boundaries by not supporting her decisions.
Hannah, who fell out with her friend over similar issues, shares her unsettling experience with a partner's inappropriate behavior, highlighting the emotional toll that disagreements can take on friendships.
Experts advise against judgmental attitudes towards friends’ partners, suggesting conversations should revolve around personal observations rather than accusations. Suggesting a need for space from a partner’s behavior while expressing concern for a friend is also encouraged.
Additionally, relationship counselor Yasmin Shaheen-Zaffar emphasizes the importance of remaining civil, even amidst conflicting opinions. She encourages a culture of tolerance to maintain friendships, suggesting it’s key to respect each other's choices while preserving personal boundaries.
Ultimately, whether a friendship can survive differing views on a partner depends on mutual respect, leadership in handling distressing emotions, and the overall health of the relationship.
