"I don't wanna lose that" - Southern Hospitality's Lake Rucker reveals her fears about coming out to her parents

In episode 8 of Bravo's Southern Hospitality, cast member Lake Rucker talked about her difficulties coming out to her family, especially her father.

Exposing the ingrained anxieties that many LGBTQ+ people have in conservative settings, she disclosed:

"We have a very close relationship and I don't want to lose that relationship."

She explained:

"My family is very successful in a lot of different aspects and so, like, they care about what the public has to say, especially in a southern town."

A spin-off of the popular television program Southern Charm, Southern Hospitality follows the youthful employees of Republic Garden & Lounge in Charleston as they balance their personal and professional lives. Growing up queer in a traditional Southern town is a difficult reality that is powerfully revealed by Lake's narrative.

Her story illustrates the more general difficulties that many young adults encounter while attempting to balance their true selves with social demands and familial expectations.

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Southern Hospitality’s Lake Rucker opens up about her self-discovery journey

(Post via Instagram/@bravotv)

Lake's background as part of a prominent Southern Christian family adds layers of complexity to her coming out journey.

"Growing up in a very southern religious family, I mean, it's hard, especially like in a Black Christian family," she explained.

Elaborating emphatically:

"There's certain things you can do. There's certain things you can't say. They think you have a disease if you're gay — Jesus Christ."

Lake's mind is troubled by the need to preserve her family's reputation in their tight-knit town. She worries not only about being accepted personally but also about preserving her family's place in their social circle and reputation.

(Post via Instagram/@lakerucker)

Lake's journey of self-discovery has been a significant part of her storyline on Southern Hospitality. The Parsons graduate and talented artist identifies as sexually fluid, embracing what she playfully calls being "for the people."

Her recent storylines have showcased this fluidity, from her flirtation with coworker Brad to her intimate friendship with Shelby, whom she describes as a "best friend with benefits."

"What I fear is not being accepted and not being loved," Lake confessed in a particularly vulnerable moment. She continued, "I don't know what everybody's issue is. Why can we just love who we love?"

While navigating her family dynamics, Lake has found understanding among her Republic coworkers, particularly Michols, who relate to her struggles. Their friendship has provided Lake with a safe space to express her fears and hopes about coming out to her family.

The show has captured Lake's vibrant personality and wit, from her artistic pursuits to her memorable 22nd birthday celebration at her family's Lake Wylie home - a place so special she was named after it. Despite the serious nature of her coming out journey, Lake maintains her characteristic humor and charm.

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Lake Rucker moves forward on her own terms

As Lake continues to navigate her path, she's choosing to prioritize authenticity while being mindful of her family's feelings. Her story on Southern Hospitality provides an important perspective on the modern Southern experience, challenging traditional narratives while acknowledging the complex realities of family, faith, and identity.

(Post via Instagram/@lakerucker)

The recent Vegas trip storyline, where Lake chose to end things with Brad, demonstrates her growing comfort with making choices that align with her true self.

"What was fun about this 'relationship' was the chase," she explained, showing her ability to be honest about her feelings and choices.

The desire to live truthfully while preserving important family relationships is a dilemma that many young adults in conservative societies can relate to, as demonstrated by Lake's continuous journey. Her story is still being told on Southern Hospitality, giving viewers a candid glimpse into the struggles and victories of coming out in the contemporary South.

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Southern Hospitality airs on Thursdays at 9:00 pm ET only on Bravo TV.