The Reason Behind Ariana Madix's Friendship Dynamics Post-Scandoval According to Lala Kent

Lala Kent shared on the "Jeff Lewis Has Issues" podcast that her Vanderpump Rules costar Ariana Madix may have lost some friends after her breakup with Tom Sandoval. Kent emphasized that Madix didn't have enough time to process the split before filming started.

We found out in March 2023 that Sandoval, 40, and Madix, 38, had broken up after being together for almost ten years because he cheated with Rachel “Raquel” Leviss. Despite the news of the affair, filming for season 11 of Vanderpump Rules started just four months later. After the split, they continued to live in the same house they shared for nearly four years, only talking through a third person. (Us confirmed that Madix is finally moving out, as she bought a new home in Los Angeles on March 19.)

Kent mentioned, “I think that’s where she’s maybe losing a couple of people in the group. You’re talking about how unsafe you feel, yet you live in the same home as him. That’s also what was kind of losing me all season.”

During season 11, Madix was clear that she would distance herself from anyone who stayed close to Sandoval. This caused tension between Madix and Scheana Schay. Kent also faced criticism for hanging out with Sandoval and sometimes supporting him.

Lala Kent Doesnt Hold Back About Ariana Madix Losing a Couple People in the Friend Group

Lala Kent, Ariana Madix, and Andrew J. Cunningham; image source: Amanda Edwards/Getty Images

Kent expressed her confusion about Madix's quick rebound with new boyfriend Daniel Wai, despite claiming to feel devastated by her previous relationship. She wanted Madix to clarify how these conflicting emotions could coexist. Kent felt misunderstood when others questioned her lack of understanding, as she too had experienced feeling unsafe with her ex. In fact, Kent had gone to great lengths to ensure her safety, even moving out in the middle of the night and paying for an Airbnb in cash to avoid leaving a paper trail. She emphasized the need for Madix to elaborate on the complexities of such situations.

She concluded, "I believe you will notice changes as the season progresses. This season is quite different and more in-depth than what we are used to. The finale was extremely intense. I think it would have been beneficial for [Madix] to take a break."

Kent, on the other hand, can somewhat understand Madix's situation. She experienced her own breakup in late 2021 and is currently involved in a custody battle with her ex-fiancé Randall Emmett over their three-year-old daughter, Ocean. Their split was confirmed by Us in October 2021, just seven months after Ocean was born. Kent later revealed allegations of infidelity against Emmett.

Kent explained to host Jeff Lewis that her situation with Emmett was both different and similar to that of Madix and Sandoval. She mentioned that there were certain aspects of her situation that she couldn't discuss due to ongoing custody issues. Despite this, she expressed that dealing with the true betrayal of infidelity has been a challenging and ongoing process for her, making it difficult to trust men.

Additionally, Kent noted that she considered herself fortunate in the sense that her ex-partner was not a regular cast member on Vanderpump Rules.

"I would have had to have really tough conversations if my ex had been a main cast member on the show," she said. "I can't keep quiet; if I see someone who has treated me badly, I will speak up."

She also mentioned, "Plus, we weren't living together at that time."

Editor's P/S:

The complex dynamics surrounding Ariana Madix's breakup with Tom Sandoval have sparked discussions about the challenges of navigating betrayal and the impact on relationships. Madix's choice to continue living with Sandoval after the split, despite expressing feelings of unsafety, has raised questions about her emotional well-being and boundaries. Lala Kent's perspective, as someone who has also experienced infidelity and a custody battle, adds nuance to the situation. She highlights the importance of self-preservation and the need for time to heal after such a traumatic experience.

Kent's comments also shed light on the unique challenges of navigating a breakup when both parties are involved in a reality TV show. The constant presence of cameras and the pressure to maintain a certain image can make it difficult for individuals to prioritize their own emotional needs. Madix's decision to distance herself from those who remained close to Sandoval further complicates the situation, showcasing the complex web of relationships and loyalties that can be tested during a high-profile breakup.