Explosive Drama Ahead: Will Ariana and Tom Successfully Dodge Each Other in 'Pump Rules' Season 11?

Ariana Madix, Tom Sandoval. Image Press Agency/NurPhoto/Shutterstock; Christopher Polk/Shutterstock

Season 11 production is currently in progress, and it appears that Ariana Madix and Tom Sandoval have successfully avoided each other in front of the cameras. However, one Vanderpump Rules executive is uncertain if this trend can continue. Producer Alex Baskin provided some insight into the show's filming timeline in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter on July 18. Baskin suggested that the buzz surrounding Sandoval and Ariana's breakup, as well as his involvement with co-star Raquel Leviss, is still very much present and intense.

In March, it was confirmed that the long-term couple, who had been together for almost ten years, ended their relationship due to Ariana discovering Sandoval's infidelity. Season 10's production had already concluded when the scandal emerged, but Bravo decided to resume filming for a powerful season finale that aired in May. The episode showcased a heated confrontation between the former partners; however, Ariana has made it clear that she has no desire to confront Sandoval again.

"I have no words for either of them," she stated to The New York Times when referring to Raquel and Sandoval. "Our show portrays a genuine group of friends, and neither of them are a part of that group, so best of luck to them."

Baskin, on the other hand, doubts the feasibility of Ariana's plan. According to him, conflicts often arise when different parties involved don't want to collaborate due to strained relationships. He noted that this situation is particularly extreme. However, Baskin pointed out that Ariana and Tom Sandoval still reside together, making it difficult to comprehend the notion that they wouldn't be willing to shoot together.

In May, Ariana led her fans to believe that she was leaving the home she shared with Sandoval when moving trucks were seen at the property. She hinted on her Instagram Story, referencing Sandoval's phrase from season 10, in which he tried to hide his relationship with Raquel. However, contrary to her hints, Ariana decided to stay. In a subsequent Story promoting her partnership with SoFi, she clarified, "I'm making progress, but not quite ready to move out yet."

Season 11 filming commenced in June, and recently Ariana was seen shooting scenes with Lala Kent and Katie Maloney. However, Sandoval and Raquel were noticeably absent from the trio's social media footage.

During a cast trip to Lake Tahoe, Lala provided an update on Tuesday. In an Instagram video, she hinted at everyone being coupled up, including the Toms, Brock Davies and Scheana Shay, as well as James Kennedy and Ally Lewber. Curiously, she excluded both Katie and Ariana from her statement, replacing it with a mention of "the MILF" and expressing her approval.

Although cameras are back in action, it may still be some time before fans can once again enjoy fights at the SUR alley or parties at TomTom. Baskin admitted to THR that she has mixed feelings about it and finds the process of making these shows to be quite intense. However, she believes that it is beneficial to make the audience miss them a little before releasing a new season in six months.

Furthermore, Baskin expressed the need to "move on" from Scandoval. She emphasized that the show has always been dynamic, and it would be disappointing for the audience if they were to solely focus on sleuthing. Everyone is striving to move forward with their lives, and if the past elements do resurface, they will naturally do so.

Regarding Raquel, who enrolled in mental health therapy following the criticism for her affair, even the producers remain uncertain about her current position. "Those discussions are still in progress," Baskin commented. "I anticipate an update in the near future. However, at present, we continue to have conversations with her."