Insights from Bravo Showrunner Alex Baskin's Recent 'Hollywood Reporter' Interview

5 Interesting Bravo Tidbits From ‘VPR’ Showrunner Alex Baskin’s ‘Hollywood Reporter’ Interview

James Kennedy, Lala Kent, Katie Maloney, Ariana Madix, Andy Cohen, Lisa Vanderpump, Tom Sandoval, Tom Schwartz, Scheana Shay, and Brock Davies. Nicole Weingart/Bravo

Bravo showrunner Alex Baskin shared his thoughts on the future of Vanderpump Rules, not feeling too surprised by Jax Taylor and Brittany Cartwright's split.

After the airing of part 3 of the Vanderpump Rules season 11 reunion on May 28, Baskin discussed the show's future, which is currently on hold. Some fans have expressed that the season 11 finale, which aired on May 7, seemed more like a series finale. However, Bravo has not provided any updates on the show's status.

Baskin mentioned that there has been a lot of speculation surrounding the show's future. Despite many predictions of its end, the show has continued to surprise viewers. Baskin clarified that the conclusion of Scandoval does not necessarily mean the end of the show.

VPR season 11 made its debut in January, almost a year after Tom Sandoval's actions led to the end of his nine-year relationship with Ariana Madix. He cheated on her with former VPR cast member Rachel "Raquel" Leviss, with news of the infidelity breaking in March 2023. The fallout from the scandal, known as Scandoval, was featured in the season 10 finale in May of that year.

Baskin didn’t give a clear answer about the future of VPR, but he did mention when fans can expect to get some answers. He also provided a big update on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.

Want to know the latest Bravo news from Baskin? Keep reading for some juicy tidbits!

1. The Future of ‘Vanderpump Rules’

At this point, Baskin said he cannot imagine VPR coming to an end.

He admitted that the show has had many lives, so he is not certain if this is the last one. However, he acknowledged that it has been a great run so far. There is no definite timeline for filming, as multiple outlets reported last month that the show would not resume filming just yet.

He added that they are not under any version of a ticking clock. He mentioned that they may have more information later in the fall.

2. Ariana Madix’s Future on ‘Vanderpump Rules’

5 Interesting Bravo Tidbits From ‘VPR’ Showrunner Alex Baskin’s ‘Hollywood Reporter’ Interview

Ariana Madix faced challenges during season 11 of 'Vanderpump Rules', as some of her costars turned against her. Baskin mentioned to THR that he is considerate of what the future holds for her.

"We're still in the process of determining our plans, which will be influenced by discussions with all cast members, including her," he said. "She's currently occupied with other priorities, so while we can talk to her, she has a busy schedule."

When questioned about the potential for a complete cast overhaul, Baskin did not dismiss the concept.

Breaking Bravo’s 4th Wall — Again

"I believe that anything is achievable. There is a solid foundation to build on," he expressed. "Therefore, I can envision a scenario where most of the original cast members come back, along with some new and exciting additions. I believe there is still a lot of potential for growth and development in the future."

The VPR season 11 finale took a unique approach by breaking the fourth wall, something Baskin was determined to do to convey the story effectively. Madix decided not to participate in a scene where Sandoval was trying to apologize, causing tension among the VPR cast members who were not pleased with her choice to leave the set.

Baskin acknowledged that the circumstances were out of the ordinary and they would continue breaking the fourth wall as needed to portray the real story. However, he clarified that the show's focus should remain on the shared experiences of the group of friends and not solely on being on the show. Despite the unconventional approach, Baskin emphasized the importance of staying true to the essence of what Ariana was trying to convey.

4. Reacting to Jax Taylor and Brittany Cartwright’s Separation

5 Interesting Bravo Tidbits From ‘VPR’ Showrunner Alex Baskin’s ‘Hollywood Reporter’ Interview

Baskin joked that he has been more surprised in the past than when he heard about Taylor and Cartwright's separation in February. Brittany Cartwright and Jax Taylor were featured on 'The Valley.' Casey Durkin/Bravo.

He mentioned noticing their struggle with overproduction on The Valley this year. The timing of it caught him off guard, as he had expected them to handle it better after the show's premiere or even throughout the season.

Regarding their future on The Valley, Baskin shared his thoughts that things have changed and the pair will likely continue filming together. He pointed out that they are now more intertwined, whether they realize it or not.

5. Season 14 of 'RHOBH' and a Potential Guest Appearance by LVP

According to Baskin, the upcoming season of RHOBH is shaping up to be quite exciting. Newcomer Bozoma Saint John will be joining the full cast, while Kathy Hilton and Jennifer Tilly will be making appearances as friends of the Housewives.

Baskin added that there is a new fresh energy. He mentioned that despite her ongoing reality TV career, Lisa Vanderpump will not be appearing on her former show anytime soon. "I think that has sort of run its course," he said.

Editor's P/S:

The future of "Vanderpump Rules" remains uncertain, but showrunner Alex Baskin is optimistic. Despite fan speculation that the season 11 finale may have been the last, Baskin insists that the show has "had many lives" and could continue. The focus, he says, will be on the shared experiences of the group rather than on simply being on the show.

Baskin also addresses the departures of Jax Taylor and Brittany Cartwright, who recently announced their separation. While he was not surprised by the news, he believes that the couple will continue filming together on "The Valley." As for the upcoming season of "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," Baskin promises a "new fresh energy" with the addition of newcomer Bozoma Saint John. However, he downplays the possibility of Lisa Vanderpump making a guest appearance, saying that "has sort of run its course."