Ariana Madix Reveals the Real Reason Behind Her Vanderpump Rules Exit

After 11 drama-filled seasons, Ariana Madix is officially done with Vanderpump Rules—and she knew it long before the cameras stopped rolling.

In a heartfelt interview with PEOPLE on March 13, Madix finally spoke her truth. She admitted, “I don’t think I was ever going to go back to Vanderpump Rules. That’s the first time I’ve ever said that publicly, but I was never going to.”

Let’s break down what led to Ariana Madix leaving Vanderpump Rules—from personal growth to reality TV burnout—and how the Bravo reboot played a part in her decision.

Ariana Madix Says Goodbye to Vanderpump Rules After 11 Seasons

Ariana’s decision to leave didn’t come lightly. But by the time Season 11 wrapped, she had already made peace with stepping away.

“It just didn’t feel right,” she said. “Not in any sort of rude way… but it just didn’t feel right.”

Ariana explained that if she had returned, she wouldn’t have been able to give the show what it needed. And for her, that meant it was time to walk away with love, not regret.

Mental Health First: Why Ariana Knew It Was Time

When filming ended, Ariana took some much-needed space to focus on herself—and that’s when everything became clear.

“I was never really made for reality TV,” Ariana admitted. “I don’t think I’ve ever been what makes a ‘good reality star.’”

Even though fans loved her calm, grounded vibe, Ariana revealed that being on camera constantly made her second-guess herself. Unless she had “a glass of wine,” she was stuck in her own head, overthinking every moment.

That kind of environment isn’t ideal for anyone’s mental well-being.

“When you’re not being yourself, you get yourself into situations where you’re saying or doing things that you don’t really back or believe in,” she added.

Ariana’s Brave Exit Shows Growth—and Self-Love

Leaving a successful reality show can be scary, especially one as iconic as Vanderpump Rules. But Ariana chose peace over pressure.

She realized the reality TV setting didn’t let her truly be herself—and pretending wasn’t worth it anymore.

Her exit isn’t about drama or ego. It’s about choosing what feels right, even when it's hard. And that’s a move many fans respect deeply.

What’s Next for Vanderpump Rules After Ariana Madix?

With Ariana gone, Bravo is making bold moves. According to TMZ, Vanderpump Rules Season 12 will start filming in early April—and it's getting a major reboot.

Here’s what we know:

• The new season will feature 14 cast members (some full-time, some friends).

• Lisa Vanderpump is the only original cast member returning.

• Familiar faces like Lala Kent, Tom Schwartz, Scheana Shay, and Brock Davies will still make appearances.

Bravo’s Big Moves: 'The Valley' Season 2 & The Reboot

While Vanderpump Rules hits refresh, The Valley—Bravo’s spin-off—is gearing up for a juicy Season 2 premiere on April 15.

Some OG cast members have found a new home there:

• Jax Taylor

• Brittany Cartwright

• Kristen Doute

And yes, Vanderpump Rules alums will pop in throughout the season. Expect cameos, drama, and plenty of Bravo buzz.

Conclusion

Ariana Madix leaving Vanderpump Rules might feel like the end of an era—but it’s really a new beginning. After 11 seasons of heartbreak, friendship, and self-discovery, Ariana is choosing herself.

She’s not walking away in anger or disappointment. Instead, she’s stepping forward with clarity, confidence, and care for her mental health.

As Vanderpump Rules heads into a bold new chapter, fans will be watching closely. And Ariana? She’s writing her next one—with purpose.

FAQs: Ariana Madix & Vanderpump Rules

Q: Why is Ariana Madix leaving Vanderpump Rules?
Ariana said the show no longer felt right for her and that she wouldn’t be able to give it the energy needed for good TV. She also wanted to protect her mental health.

Q: When did Ariana Madix decide to leave Vanderpump Rules?
She made the decision after filming Season 11 and revealed publicly in March 2025 that she had no plans to return.

Q: Is Vanderpump Rules being rebooted?
Yes! Season 12 will start filming in April 2025 with 14 cast members and only Lisa Vanderpump returning from the original group.

Q: Will Ariana Madix appear in The Valley or any other Bravo shows?
There’s no official word yet, but she may make cameo appearances in other Bravo series like The Valley.

Q: Who else is leaving Vanderpump Rules?
Several OG cast members won’t be returning full-time for Season 12, though some will make guest appearances.