What Happened Between Tom Sandoval and Ariana Madix?
Tom Sandoval and Ariana Madix were among the central couples on Bravo’s Vanderpump Rules since 2014. Their relationship was steady until the explosive "Scandoval" rocked fans. The affair between Sandoval and co-star Rachel "Raquel" Leviss became public on March 1, 2023, when Madix discovered an intimate FaceTime video on Sandoval’s phone. Let’s break down this scandal, the aftermath, and its ripple effects on reality TV.
The Shocking Discovery: How "Scandoval" Began
On March 1, 2023, Ariana Madix’s world turned upside down. During Sandoval’s band performance at TomTom, she accessed his phone and found a recorded FaceTime video with Leviss. This discovery exposed a months-long affair that reportedly started in August 2022.
Madix immediately called Leviss, who was in New York for an appearance on Watch What Happens Live. The confrontation escalated to an in-person altercation involving Scheana Shay near a Manhattan bar. Fans quickly dubbed the scandal "Scandoval," and social media exploded with support for Madix.
Social Media Buzz and Cast Reactions
Within days, Vanderpump Rules cast members like Katie Maloney, Lala Kent, and James Kennedy unfollowed Sandoval and Leviss on social media. They expressed outrage and support for Madix, with Kennedy sharing: “Hope you all feel as disgusted as I do. This explains everything.”
Sandoval attempted damage control on Instagram by posting an apology on March 4. However, his initial focus was on shielding his business partner and friend Tom Schwartz, stating:
“Please leave Schwartz, my friends, and family out of this situation... Schwartz specifically only found out about this very recently.”
Four days later, Sandoval issued a more personal apology, acknowledging the pain he caused Madix. Leviss followed with her own statement on March 8, expressing regret for her actions.
Timeline of the Affair: Secrets and Lies
August 2022: The Affair Begins
According to Tom Schwartz, Sandoval’s best friend and business partner, he knew about the affair as early as August 2022. Sandoval and Leviss met secretly throughout the summer, often at Sandoval’s Valley Village home while Madix was away. Cast members began noticing suspicious behavior by December 2022.
January 2023: Public Denials
Rumors about the affair circulated, but Sandoval, Leviss, and Madix denied them. Madix even addressed the gossip on social media, dismissing it as baseless speculation. Behind the scenes, however, Sandoval and Leviss maintained hidden communications and secret meetings.
February 2023: The Final Days of Secrecy
The month before the scandal broke, Sandoval and Leviss’s relationship intensified. Witnesses later revealed accounts of covert visits, phone records, and texts that showed the extent of their connection.
Explosive Vanderpump Rules Reunion
The season 10 reunion, filmed on March 23, 2023, became one of the most dramatic episodes in Vanderpump Rules history. Ariana Madix arrived in a striking red revenge dress, symbolizing her defiance and strength. Leviss, meanwhile, participated separately due to legal restrictions.
Andy Cohen Mediates Heated Exchanges
Andy Cohen hosted intense confrontations between cast members. Kennedy and Kent led aggressive questioning sessions, calling out Sandoval for his deceit and lack of accountability.
Leviss revealed during her one-on-one segment:
“He made me feel heard and seen, and those were feelings I haven’t really felt before.”
She admitted to lying about the timeline and extent of their relationship, further angering cast members and fans alike.
New Details Emerge
Schwartz’s testimony confirmed he had known about the affair for months. Madix also uncovered additional evidence, including meetings between Sandoval and Leviss while she was attending a family funeral.
Legal Fallout: Property Disputes and More
In 2024, Ariana Madix filed a property dispute against Sandoval regarding their shared home in Valley Village. Leviss also took legal action, alleging unauthorized distribution of the explicit video. Both lawsuits added to the drama surrounding "Scandoval."
Ariana Madix’s Bold New Chapter
By August 2023, Ariana Madix confirmed on Bethenny Frankel’s Just B podcast that she would not return to reality TV. She stated:
“I refuse to not respect myself on that level where I would endure that emotional abuse any longer.”
Madix has since focused on personal growth and professional ventures, including her cocktail book and other entrepreneurial pursuits.
Conclusion: What’s Next for Vanderpump Rules?
The "Scandoval" scandal shook the foundation of Vanderpump Rules, reshaping relationships and public perceptions. With Ariana Madix stepping away from the spotlight and Leviss’s legal battles ongoing, fans are left wondering about the show’s future dynamics.
FAQs
What is "Scandoval"?
"Scandoval" refers to the affair between Tom Sandoval and Raquel Leviss, which ended Sandoval’s nine-year relationship with Ariana Madix.
When did Ariana Madix discover the affair?
Madix found evidence of the affair on March 1, 2023, via an intimate video on Sandoval’s phone.
Are Tom Sandoval and Raquel Leviss still together?
As of the latest updates, their relationship status remains unclear, with both parties facing backlash from fans and co-stars.
Will Ariana Madix return to Vanderpump Rules?
No, Madix has publicly stated she will not return to reality TV.
How did the cast react to "Scandoval"?
Many cast members unfollowed Sandoval and Leviss, voicing their support for Madix and condemning the affair.
