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. 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, whom Chrishell dislikes.
It boiled over during an end-of-season reunion and led to online debates about how, or 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.
Friends falling out
In the show, Stause claims she's never approved of Hernan's relationship with property developer Davis. She alleges that he love-bombed Hernan early in the relationship and that there were huge red flags. Love bombing often involves someone showering a partner with gifts, attention, and various promises.
Hernan, however, has expressed that she would like Stause to step back and realise her level of love and support, asserting it's her choice who to be with.
Similar complexities arise in real life, as shown by the experience of Hannah, who recounts falling out with her long-time friend Georgia over a partner.
Georgia, who had a troubling history with previous partners, got engaged quickly to a man whom Hannah felt was problematic. Personal encounters became uncomfortable and ultimately led Hannah to cut ties with Georgia.
What you can do, according to a relationship expert
Relationship expert Anna Williamson emphasizes the need for delicacy when expressing concerns regarding a friend's partner. She advises against judgmental comments, instead focusing on observed behaviors and checking in with feelings.
Williamson suggests saying: I care about you so much but I want to check in because I've noticed that you seem really stressed lately. She also encourages friends to set boundaries if they feel uncomfortable around a partner, suggesting a gentle approach.
Yasmin Shaheen-Zaffar adds that avoiding gossip is crucial to maintain trust and prevent exacerbating tension. Keep yourself safe from conversations that may lead to misunderstandings.
'Try to remain civil'
With respect to political and personal differences, Shaheen-Zaffar advises acceptance and civility, particularly if the disagreement isn’t over harmful views. Nevertheless, sometimes a partner's actions may breach personal comfort levels, pushing friends to take a step back.
As Hannah learned, expressing concern while setting boundaries can lead to difficult conversations that may end friendships, but ultimately preserve personal wellbeing.
