Andy Cohen Supports Raquel Leviss' Decision to Leave 'Vanderpump Rules' Amidst Tom Sandoval Affair (Exclusive)
Andy Cohen discusses Raquel Leviss' decision to not return for season 11 of 'Vanderpump Rules' and expresses his admiration for her choice
Andy Cohen, aged 55, expresses his support for Rachel “Raquel” Leviss’ decision not to return to Vanderpump Rules, despite the potential added drama to season 11. "I think it’s a personal decision. If that was the healthiest move for her, I respect looking at it and saying, ‘This was not something that brought out the best in me so I’m going to choose something else,’" he said while exclusively speaking to We on Tuesday, January 9, as he promoted his partnership with Walmart+.
Cohen emphasized his support for every Bravo production he produces, stating, "I always respect that decision across all shows."
Even with Leviss not present, Cohen alluded to the upcoming episodes being a thrilling experience.
“I can’t wait for people to see Vanderpump Rules [season 11]. It continues right where we left off,” he mentioned. “I believe that witnessing the evolving relationships and personal growth in some, and lack of progress in others, will be truly captivating for the audience.”
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Filming for Season 11 began several months after Tom Sandoval and Ariana Madix ended their nearly decade-long relationship following his affair with Leviss, 29. Despite the breakup, most of the cast members returned to film, including Madix, 38, Sandoval, 41, Katie Maloney, Tom Schwartz, Lala Kent, Scheana Shay, James Kennedy, Ally Lewber, and Brock Davies.
Leviss, on the other hand, admitted herself to a mental health facility in April 2023 following the scandal's widespread coverage. She underwent a 90-day treatment and later announced that she had no intention of resuming her role on the Bravo series.
In August 2023, Leviss explained her decision on Bethenny Frankel's "Just B" podcast, saying, "Oh, absolutely not. I refuse to subject myself to that emotional abuse any longer. I have to maintain self-respect."
Leviss stated that the network's refusal to give her a higher salary played a part in her ultimate choice.
"They also told me that your pay is based on your performance from the previous season," she said. "The errors I made on camera are permanent. And you mentioned the addiction of reality TV and how they always keep you wanting more. They say, 'You have to tell your side of the story or it will be written for you.' That's really scary."
Leviss appeared to be the only cast member hesitant about returning. Meanwhile, Sandoval remained committed to filming the show, despite most of his fellow cast members siding with Madix during the drama.
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In an interview with Us, Cohen expressed uncertainty about whether Sandoval will be redeemed in season 11 of Vanderpump Rules. "It's up to the folks on the show. I think the question is, 'How long do we keep this guy on an island?' And it's up to the fans," he continued. "We've known him through television for 10 years, so where is he? What place does he hold with us now?"
Cohen is not only getting ready for the highly-anticipated return of Vanderpump Rules, but is also focused on Walmart+'s Save Your Resolutions campaign. He has teamed up with the company to support individuals in achieving their New Year's resolutions. Cohen explained, "Like millions of Americans, I often abandon my resolutions, so we want to help you save them. With Walmart+, you get the ultimate savings membership, including free grocery delivery, free shipping, discounted fuel, and more. It's a way to save time and money while kickstarting and achieving your resolutions."
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If fans sign up for Walmart before the end of January, they will receive $50 bucks in Walmart cash. “Who’s going to say no to that?” Cohen added.
With reporting by Christina Garibaldi
