With all the elements of a modern fairy tale, the story began as a girl meets boy scenario during a summer vacation. Their friendship blossomed into a deep love, leading them to an engagement that was documented by reality TV cameras. However, much to the surprise of both Summer House fans and Lindsay Hubbard, Carl Radke abruptly ended their engagement just three months before their scheduled November wedding.
Hubbard describes herself as completely blindsided by the sudden turn of events, as Radke never provided a clear reason for calling off the wedding. This decision shattered her life, leaving her in a state of tears and anger. Finding closure on her own became a necessity, and she has now reached a point where she feels optimistic about moving forward. In an interview with Us, Hubbard opens up about the heartbreaking breakup, her process of healing, and the newfound joy she is beginning to discover.
How have you been coping since officially ending your relationship in September?
In the initial month, I embraced the full range of emotions, experiencing sadness, pain, and shock. I find solace in discussing my feelings, and my friends supported me in that aspect. Gradually, I regained my inner strength and regained confidence in myself, knowing that I am capable of moving forward. Carl's actions were a complete betrayal of my trust, which ironically helped me find the motivation to pick myself up and continue to embrace new opportunities.
Did you have any inkling about this?
Every couple experiences typical arguments, but none that would be severe enough to end the relationship. It was during the final two weeks of summer when his attitude and manner suddenly shifted. He became highly confrontational and aggressive, leaving me feeling utterly bewildered.
“I want to have this weight lifted off my shoulders,” Hubbard says of breaking her silence on the split. Kevin Sturman/MEGA
Planning a wedding can be an overwhelming experience, further amplified by the additional stress of filming throughout the summer. Although some individuals may have influenced his decision, it is not typical to call off a wedding due to a few disagreements.
Can you provide more details about the breakup?
I felt completely humiliated. The situation would have been somewhat easier to handle if this conversation had taken place during the regular filming schedule over the summer. However, Carl went ahead and contacted the producers, arranged for cameras to be set up, and manipulated me into sitting down with him to break up after we had already finished filming. It was a frightening experience, especially considering that the news spread worldwide within just 30 minutes of me finding out.
Who did you ask for support?
I have an incredible circle of girlfriends who gathered around me. We conversed, we shed tears. And women are skilled investigators, aren't they? So we spent the initial week mentally analyzing every aspect of this breakup.
Are you and your costar Danielle Olivera now close again? Did she provide support for you as well?
Danielle has been absolutely amazing throughout this entire process. I thoroughly enjoyed reconnecting with various girls in the house and they stood by my side throughout the summer. Whenever something occurred concerning Carl, they were always there to validate my feelings and offer guidance. It ultimately evolved into a beautiful story of sisterhood.
What is the current status of your relationship with Kyle Cooke, given his criticism towards you and Carl's relationship?
Kyle has consistently held a grudge against me. He perceives me as a cunning puppeteer, exerting control over every aspect of life, and he shares a close bond with Carl. I believe he seeks to support Carl by finding an ally, while also maintaining the belief that I am always at fault. I have grown accustomed to this dynamic by now.
Did your costars share the same level of astonishment as you when your relationship with Carl came to an unexpected end? Nobody could have predicted it; there were no indications or warnings. Just two weeks prior, Carl even attended my bridal shower, and a week before that, I saw him getting fitted for his suits alongside his groomsmen during my dress fitting. It had absolutely nothing to do with our wedding preparations, and there was no infidelity involved.
Was his sobriety a factor?
No, not at all.
“I deserve to be loved with a full heart, the way that I love,” Hubbard says. “I’m excited to find that person.” Kevin Sturman/MEGA
Did you believe your Summer House costars were correct in their assertion that you were moving too quickly? Upon reflection, do you concur?
No, as establishing a friendship over the span of eight years enables one to truly understand an individual; their idiosyncrasies, imperfections, and limits. Consequently, there is no need to embark on the customary process of acquainting oneself with the other person.
Did the breakup feel more challenging due to the shared history between you and Carl?
That, in itself, is the most difficult aspect. Presently, any emotions that resurface within me remind me more of losing my closest confidant rather than my intended life partner.
Did you allow him to take charge of coordinating the cancellation of the wedding?
Yes, that's correct. As Carl made the decision to call off the wedding, it is his responsibility to send the necessary email [to the guests]. I shouldn't have to take this on as it wasn't my choice.
What did you do with the ring?
I gave it to my jeweler to sell it. I need to make up for all the lost money on the wedding.
Do you still reside in the apartment you once shared with him? I cherish my living space as it has been a labor of love, involving significant time, money, and effort to create a comfortable home for both of us. It is disheartening that he destroyed it. Currently, I am not in a state of mind to contemplate my future living arrangements.
“I wish [Carl] a lot of healing and growth,” says Hubbard. Kevin Sturman/MEGAYour November 17 wedding date is coming up. Will you do anything special?
I’m gonna start writing my book. It’ll be a mixture of career, dating and family [anecdotes]. I’ve got a lot of stories to tell.
Do you have any regrets about your relationship?
I will always cherish the moments of being with him and loving somebody wholeheartedly, without any regrets. Each experience has contributed to my personal growth and enhanced my ability to handle future situations more effectively.
What insights have you gained about yourself from this breakup?
I have discovered my inner strength, realizing that if I can overcome this challenge, then any other obstacle is insignificant. Many girls have reached out to me, expressing how inspiring it is to witness my determination to move forward, starting with the bachelorette trip just three weeks after the breakup. I sense that I am gaining momentum in my pursuit of happiness and joy.
You have always expressed a desire for the fulfillment of marriage and children. Does that aspiration still hold true for you?
What type of man are you seeking?
I am looking for someone who is driven, possesses emotional intelligence, has a sense of humor, and is able to connect with me intimately while allowing me to be my authentic self. My friends have been eager to introduce me to potential matches, and there have even been individuals showing interest in me through direct messages. I am filled with anticipation for this next chapter of my life, and I strongly believe that it will bring great things.