Scheana Shay Silences Critics as She Defends 'Pump Rules' Cast Embracing Tom Sandoval in Stunning Photos

Scheana Shay. Noam Galai/Bravo

Scheana Shay suggested that there is additional information to the story in response to criticism from fans of Vanderpump Rules. The fans had criticized the cast for hugging Tom Sandoval in recent beach photos. Scheana, 38, responded via Instagram on Friday, August 11, on a fan account that showed Lala Kent embracing Sandoval, 41, on the beach. She urged the fans to watch the upcoming season of the show to understand the context behind the photos.

Scheana emphasized, "Only WE truly understand the current dynamics within this group! There is genuine authenticity among us, and individuals are definitely being held accountable for their actions."

The Pump Rules cast, who started filming season 11 in June, have come together multiple times since the intense season 10 reunion aired in May. At the reunion, Scheana, Lala, and the rest of the cast criticized Sandoval for his involvement with Raquel Leviss. In March, it was confirmed that Sandoval and Ariana Madix ended their nine-year relationship due to his infidelity with Leviss.

Some fans found the beach photo interesting, but others were skeptical of the friendly exchange between Lala and Sandoval. One commenter on PumpRules' Instagram post pointed out that if Ariana hugged Randall (Lala's ex-fiancé), it would cause a major conflict. They questioned whether Lala's loyalty should come before financial gain, despite their history together.

Scheana responded to the loyalty comment by saying, "Ariana was present. Just watch the season."

In response to another follower expressing confusion about the picture at the L.A. beach, Scheana playfully remarked, "That's fantastic! Stay confused. Watch the season and then form your opinions. I guarantee you that one photo does not encompass everything we have filmed."

Scheana fired back in the comments, questioning how someone could expect the cast to act differently at the season 10 reunion, given that it took place shortly after the events became public knowledge.

Despite defending her castmate's decision to film with Sandoval, despite his mistreatment of Ariana, Scheana previously acknowledged that shooting season 11 had been challenging.

"We went to Tahoe, and all of it was filmed for season 11. Ariana and Katie [Maloney] did not come, but Tom Sandoval did. There was one day that was beyond the most emotionally draining day I have ever experienced in 11 seasons of Vanderpump Rules," Scheana admitted during an Amazon Live session last month. "No joke, my eyelashes hurt from how much I cried that day. My contacts were dry, and I was congested. I felt weak in every possible way. Out of 11 seasons, that day affected me the most."

In July, Scheana garnered attention for a photo she took with the cast, which included Sandoval. While fans criticized her for the group shot, Ariana defended Scheana.

“@Scheana is an incredible friend who graciously took a photo with a fan on their birthday. It's disheartening to see so many unkind comments directed towards her, when all she was doing was a kind gesture,” Ariana expressed in an Instagram Stories post. “We always make an effort to take photos with fans, and when the entire cast is present, it's customary for all of us to be included in the photo, regardless of any personal dynamics at the time.”