The Rise and Fall of Rachel Leviss on Vanderpump Rules
Rachel Leviss entered Vanderpump Rules as a fresh face, a contrast to the seasoned cast members. Initially seen as a sweet and somewhat naive newcomer, her relationship with James Kennedy was a focal point. Despite her growing presence on the show, it wasn’t until her involvement with Tom Sandoval that the real drama unfolded.
Secret Affairs and Betrayal: The Scandoval Unveiled
The pivotal moment came when Ariana Maddix discovered Tom Sandoval’s affair with Rachel. This revelation not only shocked viewers but also set off a chain reaction of drama, leading to the infamous Scandoval. Rachel’s secret relationship with Tom Sandoval and her subsequent actions had severe repercussions, including the end of several friendships and a public fallout.
Rachel's actions extended beyond personal betrayal. At Scheana Shay’s wedding, Rachel made out with Tom Schwartz, a move she later used to further obfuscate her relationship with Sandoval. This act, in defiance of Katie Maloney’s explicit request, only fueled the drama.
The Fallout: From Reality TV to Legal Battles
The consequences of Scandoval were swift and severe. Rachel faced intense backlash, losing friendships and dealing with legal issues, including a restraining order from Scheana Shay after an alleged altercation. The reunion episode highlighted the discord, with cast members expressing their frustrations and disappointment.
Rachel’s decision to step back from Vanderpump Rules and enter rehab was initially seen as a positive move. However, her subsequent return to the spotlight through a podcast platform, where she seemed to play the victim rather than taking full responsibility, did not sit well with fans or her former castmates.
The Apology Tour: Missteps and Public Perception
Rachel Leviss’ apology tour, including her appearance on Bethenny Frankel’s podcast, was intended to be a space for accountability. Instead, it became a platform where Rachel reiterated her victim narrative. She spoke about her struggles with love addiction, yet failed to adequately address the harm she caused.
Bethenny Frankel's podcast appearance was particularly controversial. Frankel, known for her critical stance on reality TV, questioned how the Scandoval was used for profit. Rachel’s response only deepened the perception that she was not fully owning up to her actions.
The Lawsuit Against Ariana and Tom Sandoval
In a surprising turn, Rachel filed a lawsuit against Ariana Maddix and Tom Sandoval for revenge porn. Rachel alleged that explicit videos recorded without her consent were distributed by Ariana. This lawsuit added another layer of complexity to the situation and further strained any possibility of reconciliation with her former friends.
Rachel Leviss’ New Era: Podcasts and Continued Controversy
Rachel's podcast, Rachel Goes Rogue, was meant to be a space for her to share her side of the story. Unfortunately, it has largely been viewed as an attempt to shift blame and garner sympathy rather than offer genuine remorse. Her comments about feeling betrayed by her former friends further highlighted her struggle to take full responsibility for her actions.
Common Questions
Q: What was the Scandoval? A: Scandoval refers to the scandal involving Rachel Leviss and Tom Sandoval’s secret affair, which led to significant drama on Vanderpump Rules and a fallout with Ariana Maddix.
Q: Why did Rachel Leviss leave Vanderpump Rules? A: Rachel left Vanderpump Rules to distance herself from the drama and focus on her mental health, including checking into a rehab facility.
Q: What was the outcome of Rachel Leviss' apology tour? A: Rachel's apology tour, including her podcast appearances, was criticized for failing to show genuine accountability and for emphasizing her victimhood rather than addressing her actions.
Q: What is the status of Rachel Leviss’ lawsuit against Ariana Maddix? A: Rachel filed a lawsuit alleging that Ariana Maddix and Tom Sandoval distributed explicit videos without her consent, adding legal complexity to the ongoing drama.
Conclusion
Rachel Leviss’ journey from a seemingly innocent reality TV star to a controversial figure in Vanderpump Rules is marked by a series of missteps and ongoing drama. Her inability to fully own up to her actions and her continued focus on portraying herself as a victim have shaped public perception and fueled the scandal’s longevity. As she continues to navigate the fallout, the Scandoval remains a significant chapter in her story.
