Captain Lee Rosbach and Carl Radke have showcased their enduring friendship to Bravo fans throughout the years. Lee's popularity soared when he graced the screens for 10 seasons of Below Deck. On the other hand, Carl's eventful journey on Summer House, which commenced in 2017, has been extensively documented, capturing both his highs and lows.
The duo, who star on separate television shows, were brought together due to the loss of their loved ones to addiction. Lee's son Joshua passed away at the age of 42 in 2019, while Carl dealt with the death of his brother Curtis from an accidental drug overdose in 2020. During an appearance on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen in February 2021, Carl shared that they have a similar story and that Lee reached out to him during a difficult time. The support from a fellow member of the Bravo family, especially someone as esteemed as Captain Lee, meant a great deal to him, particularly because Lee is a male figure.
Lee and Carl have maintained a close relationship ever since. In fact, Carl asked the captain to officiate his wedding to Lindsay Hubbard, scheduled for November 2023, but unfortunately, it was canceled three months before. To address the rumors surrounding the breakup, Lee publicly stood up for his friend and Lindsay.
Lee expressed their disappointment at people taking sides in situations like this, as it only leads to both parties losing. During an exclusive interview with We at BravoCon in November 2023, Lee stated, "It upsets me when people declare themselves as 'Team Carl' or 'Team Lindsay'. Instead, they should allow them the space to resolve their issues and focus on what they need to work on." Let's now take a look back at Lee and Carl's friendship over the years.
2020
Lee disclosed his son's struggle with addiction on Below Deck, coinciding with Carl receiving news of his older brother's passing during the filming of Summer House's fifth season. In light of this, Lee extended his assistance to Carl, who has openly discussed his own battle with addiction prior to achieving sobriety.
2021
Charles Sykes/Bravo
During the Summer House season 5 reunion, which was broadcasted in May 2021, Carl expressed his gratitude to Lee for extending support to him. Lindsay, who was his girlfriend at the time, described their friendship as "the most beautiful, sweet thing," and reflected on how Carl handled his grief.
2021
In May 2021, Lee received praise from a Bravo fan for his assistance to Carl. In his response, Lee acknowledged that helping others is something we should all strive to do more of. He emphasized that although it may not be easy, it is the right thing to do. Lee encouraged giving everything we have, assuring that this mindset would lead to a fulfilling life. Carl expressed his gratitude towards Lee, recollecting the advice given to him. He emphasized Lee's words about the importance of doing the right thing, even if it is uncomfortable or challenging. Carl concluded by praising Lee as the best Captain.
2022
After keeping in touch over FaceTime and phone calls, Carl and Lee finally crossed paths in person at BravoCon 2022.
2022
During an episode of WWHL, Carl acknowledged Lee's role in establishing the foundation that gave him the assurance to embark on a relationship with Lindsay. In March 2022, while discussing their friendship, Carl described Lee as someone who has played a significant paternal role in his life.
2022
Courtesy of Carl Radke/Instagram
In November 2022, Carl expressed his gratitude to Lee for the significant impact he has had on his life. He took to Instagram to acknowledge how Lee's support during a crucial moment in his journey of sobriety and coping with grief has been invaluable. Carl recognizes that losing a loved one is incredibly challenging, and having Lee as a pillar of strength and guidance over the past two years has been a true blessing. He sincerely thanks Lee for his kindness, warmth, strength, and guidance, expressing his deep appreciation for their friendship.
In response, Lee humbly acknowledges Carl's words, emphasizing that it has been an honor and privilege to be Carl's friend. Lee acknowledges that Carl has been the one doing the hard work and that he feels privileged to have been able to help in any way he could. He assures Carl that he receives more from their friendship than he gives. Lee concludes by thanking Carl for his kind words and addressing him respectfully as "sir."
2023
In honor of Lee’s 10-year anniversary on Below Deck, Carl made an appearance to celebrate his pal’s Bravo career.
Charles Sykes/Bravo
In March 2023, Carl expressed his gratitude for having him in his life and the joy of showing love to their favorite Capt. He acknowledged the tremendous impact Capt has had on many people and found it truly inspiring. Carl thanked Capt for being a great role model and for always speaking the truth. The anticipation for Capt's future endeavors is high! #MoreCaptLee
2023
During the filming of the WWHL special, Carl disclosed to Andy Cohen about Lee’s involvement in his upcoming wedding to Lindsay. He mentioned that the wedding would take place in Mexico and although they were still figuring out the details, they intended to have a discussion with Captain Lee about it.
Lee stood by his friend's side despite being equally shocked by Carl and Lindsay's split. On his "Salty With Captain Lee" podcast in September, Lee stated, "Carl and I have had a conversation about this, and while I can't disclose what was discussed, I can say that he is absolutely devastated. I have never seen anyone as brokenhearted as him."
In November, it was confirmed by Us that Carl had recorded a tell-all episode on Lee's podcast discussing the breakup. However, this episode was never released.
Lee mentioned that they did conduct an interview with Carl Radke, but unfortunately, it will not be broadcasted and the decision was not made by Lee. If someone wishes to know the reasons behind it, they could contact Carl Radke. Lee clarified that although the interview was recorded, it will not be aired, and apologized to those who were anticipating it. Lee intended to share the interview but encountered some obstacles. Carl Radke did not publicly address Lee's statements.