Kim Kardashian and Jonathan Cheban were inseparable for years, with Jonathan, a publicist-turned-reality star, often seen as Kim's closest confidant. However, recent events, fan theories, and social media chatter suggest that their friendship has cooled. The once-dynamic duo has not been spotted together in months, and the reasons behind their apparent split are sparking speculation.
Jonathan's New Circles and Controversial Connections
Jonathan Cheban, now known as Foodgod, recently attended Heidi Klum's 23rd Annual Halloween Party, rubbing shoulders with a new set of high-profile friends, including Bethenny Frankel. This is notable because Bethenny has previously criticized Kim Kardashian, raising eyebrows about Jonathan's loyalty to his long-time best friend.
This new friendship fueled fan theories that Jonathan may have betrayed Kim's trust. On Instagram, fans speculated that he might have leaked private information about the Kardashian family. "My friends and I have a conspiracy theory that he was always the leak. And they finally cut ties," one commenter wrote. Another added, "He leaked everything!!! That's why we haven't heard anything on the Kardashians recently—they got all the rats out."
While there is no concrete evidence to support these claims, the timing of Jonathan's shift in social circles has led many to believe that a fallout between him and Kim is at play.
A Pattern of Broken Friendships
Kim Kardashian's friendship history suggests she's no stranger to cutting ties. Fans have drawn parallels between her fallout with Jonathan and her public split from Larsa Pippen, a former close friend and cast member of "The Real Housewives of Miami."
Larsa and Kim's relationship took a turn in 2020 during Kim's tumultuous separation from Kanye West. Larsa later revealed on "The Real Housewives of Miami" that her proximity to Kim's marriage drama was the reason for their fallout. "I was best friends with Kim, and I love her and Kanye… I just was the person that was stuck in the middle," Larsa said. "I knew too much, I was a problem, and that basically was the demise of our relationship."
Fans noted how quickly Kim and her family unfollowed Larsa on social media, marking a clear end to their friendship. Similarly, Kim has distanced herself from former stylists and collaborators like Monica Rose and Joyce Bonelli, leaving some to speculate that Kim moves on swiftly from relationships that no longer serve her.
The Decline of Kim and Jonathan's Bond
Jonathan Cheban had been a fixture in the Kardashian world for over 15 years, frequently appearing on their reality TV shows, accompanying Kim to events, and vacationing with the family. However, their outings became less frequent in recent years, and rumors of a rift circulated.
Some believe Jonathan's association with people critical of Kim, like Bethenny Frankel, might have caused tension. Others point to Kim's growing desire for privacy, mainly as her family deals with various personal and professional challenges.
A Trend of Outgrowing Relationships
The potential fallout between Kim and Jonathan aligns with a larger pattern in her life. As one Instagram user remarked, "It's kinda like her Larsa. Weren't they total besties forever? She drops friends fast." Another pointed out, "What happened to her wardrobe stylist Monica Rose? What happened to her makeup girl Joyce? It's everyone but her."
While some see this as a sign that Kim is outgrowing certain friendships, others interpret it as a calculated move to protect her brand and personal life. Whether Jonathan Cheban was indeed a "leak," the speculation reflects the scrutiny surrounding Kim's relationships and the high stakes of being part of her orbit.