Kara Jackson Reflects on Relationship with Stephen McBee Jr.

Kara Jackson is starting a new chapter in her life, moving on from her challenging relationship with Stephen McBee Jr. after filming McBee Dynasty: Real American Cowboys Season 2. While she finds it hard to revisit the tumult of their final months together, she’s optimistic about her future in Dallas, Texas. “Last year was tough for me,” she shared. “It’s been some time, but I’m feeling great now.” Having faced the loss of her sister along with the chaos of the McBee family, it seems Kara is finally carving out a space for happiness and healing.

Throughout their three-year relationship, Kara made significant efforts to keep things on track. “I lived in Missouri for a year and a half,” she recounted, noting the difficulty of separating from someone she deeply loved. Ultimately, it was Stephen’s lack of support during her toughest times that led to their breakup. “I tried to help him,” she explained, “but I didn’t feel that care in return. That’s when things started to shift for us.”

The turning point came during a family trip to the Ozarks, where tensions boiled over after a night of drinking. “I wanted so much to make things right,” Kara remembered, feeling hopeful about the trip. However, after a confrontation with Cole McBee, Stephen’s reaction made it clear that their relationship was at a breaking point. “I learned a lot, but I’m proud of how I handled myself in a tough situation,” she said. “I could have walked away but mostly kept quiet. Unfortunately, that didn’t change much.”

Weeks after the Ozarks incident, Stephen reached out to apologize, thinking Kara could simply move past the trip. Kara reflected, “It’s wild to think about.” Although she was willing to hear him out, it wasn’t an easy choice for her to leave, given their on-and-off relationship pattern. Ultimately, though, Kara felt empowered to say goodbye—not just to Stephen, but to the complexities of McBee life. She’s looking forward to what lays ahead.

Interview Highlights

During a recent conversation on Zoom, Jackson opened up about her experiences over the season, her past relationship, and her insights regarding the McBee family.

Decider: You’ve been through a lot this season. How are you doing?

Kara: Last year was definitely the hardest of my life, but I’m in a much better place now. I feel genuinely happy.

And you’re back in Dallas? How’s that transition?

Kara: I’m really glad to be back. I liked living on the farm, but Dallas feels like home, with family and old friends nearby.

Did taking care of Stephen during his family’s troubles weigh heavily on you?

Kara: Oh, definitely. I was his only support during the FBI investigation. I poured everything into him, but when it came time for me to need support, it wasn’t there. That’s when I realized our dynamic was shifting.

With reality TV often focusing on dramatic moments, how do you separate the good from the bad in your memories with Stephen?

Kara: It’s challenging. We had some wonderful moments in our three years together, but I think it’ll take time to truly sift through it.

Can you talk about that trip to the Ozarks? Christie made some remarks that seemed unfair. How did you feel about that?

Kara: Her comments surprised me. We were close, and I had no idea there was any tension in the family dynamics. I felt blindsided.

I sensed a lot of tension during that trip. Did you feel everyone was on the same page?

Kara: Looking back, I think I was a bit naive. I really thought that trip would help us. After hearing Stephen’s reassurances, the outcome was, well, heartbreaking.

How did you handle a heated situation with Cole?

Kara: I tried my best [laughs]. It was tough, but I’m proud I didn’t escalate things further.

What do you think about Christie’s theory regarding Stephen’s father?

Kara: There might be some truth to that. It’s a conversation Stephen and I had before, and it’s something we discussed with others too.

During the latest episode, I noticed Stephen’s quick apology. What was your reaction?

Kara: Honestly? Just another day for us. I had grown accustomed to his apologies; it felt routine.

You mentioned before you were still figuring things out. Why did you decide to forgive him?

Kara: I had some time to think before he reached out. Leaving Missouri was hard; we had a deep bond.

And what about Cole’s recent apology?

Kara: I wasn’t expecting it. I’m glad he wanted to make amends, but I wonder how genuine it was.

Have you met with Stephen to catch up?

Kara: I’ve seen glimpses of his life on social media. He’s excited to be an uncle, and I’m happy for him.

What can you say about attending Jesse’s wedding together?

Kara: Expect a dramatic episode ahead—lots of twists and turns!

Tell us a bit about your current journey.

Kara: I’m back in Dallas and working at an art gallery. I’m focusing on personal growth and rediscovering my happiness.

McBee Dynasty: Real American Cowboys airs on Bravo Mondays at 9 PM ET/PT.