Vanderpump Rules: James Kennedy celebrated one year sober

James Kennedy celebrated one year of sobriety this weekend and we could not be more proud of how far Vanderpump Rules star has come.

James Kennedy has been on Vanderpump Rules for five seasons now.  He has had many ups and downs on the show, including his troubled relationship with Kristen Doute and his struggles with alcohol.  Lisa Vanderpump and James have had many conversations on camera about his issues with drinking and though Lisa often comes off as insincere, she seemed sincere in her actions with James.

When Raquel Leviss entered the picture several years ago, James was definitely not in a great place.  Raquel joined Lisa in encouraging James to get himself together.  They wanted him to stop drinking and focus on work, but James wasn’t ready at that time.  Eventually, James went to Alcoholics Anonymous and started putting the work in himself.  Raquel drove him there and waited for him to get out.  It was clear she wanted to support him in this journey.

As of last weekend, James celebrated one year of sobriety.  In his Instagram caption, James said getting sober was the best decision he’s ever made.  He said he doesn’t miss alcohol or the feeling of drinking, and he’s grateful for everything.  “Thank you to my rock @raquelleviss for getting me here I couldn’t of done this without you my love.”

On Bravo’s Daily Dish, Raquel said she loved James sober.  She said he’s charming and it’s everything she fell in love with initially.  James also said that he loves cooking at home with Raquel and that their relationship has improved drastically since his lifestyle change.  In the most recent season, James was involved in the drama of the show less.  Is it a coincidence that less Vanderpump Rules coincided with an improved well-being?

Scheana Shay also noted that James doesn’t need alcohol to be funny and entertaining.  The ladies agreed that when he is sober, he’s more fun a creative, too.  Of course, the decision to be sober can only be made by the one being sober, but it is clear how supportive Raquel is of the journey.

Out of everyone on the show, James is one of the only people to actually learn and grow from his mistakes.  Sure, he’s had some issues in the past – but haven’t we all?  Keep up the good work, James.

Vanderpump Rules is on Bravo….for reruns.