Tom Sandoval Faces Resounding Booing at 'Vanderpump Rules' BravoCon Panel
Tom Sandoval, a 'Vanderpump Rules' star known for his past infidelity, faced a barrage of boos from fans at BravoCon for his actions involving ex-girlfriend Ariana Madix and Raquel Leviss
Tom Sandoval. Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for House of Barrie
Tom Sandoval, the star of Vanderpump Rules, has earned the title of BravoCon's biggest foe this year. Our confirmation comes from witnessing a crowd vehemently booing the 41-year-old during the Vanderpump Rules panel held on Friday, November 3, at the Gold Stage of Caesars Forum in Las Vegas. The panel was expertly moderated by Karamo Brown from Queer Eye.
The fans' backlash started when Karamo, aged 43, inquired if anyone on the panel was feeling anxious about being present, to which Sandoval raised his hand. "We are aware of your nervousness," Karamo taunted.
In March, Sandoval solidified his reputation as a reality TV antagonist when news broke about his enduring affair with co-star Raquel Leviss. As a result of the scandal, he and Ariana Madix ended their nine-year relationship.
Following their separation, both Sandoval and 38-year-old Ariana reunited to film the upcoming eleventh season of Pump Rules, which concluded production in September. During the panel on Friday, Ariana, who is presently competing on season 32 of Dancing With the Stars, characterized her filming experience for season 11 as "peculiar."
She further added, "It was a distinct and challenging endeavor, and I am relieved that it is now part of the past - this previous season."
Sandoval faced repeated boos throughout the panel as the crowd disagreed with his characterization of season 11 as a "roller-coaster" and his newfound appreciation for small gestures, such as greetings and smiles. The audience also expressed their opinions on Sandoval and Ariana's shared home in Los Angeles, with a fan shouting, "Sell the house!" in response to Ariana's comment about actively trying to change the ownership situation. Ariana further explained that she is staying elsewhere while filming DWTS due to the show's busy and unpredictable schedule.
Tom Sandoval, Ariana Madix. Amanda Edwards/Getty Images
Despite the panel's clear disapproval of Sandoval, who claimed to have abstained from alcohol for the past six months, a few of his fellow performers stood up in his support. "I personally still enjoy conversing with Sandoval," expressed Brock Davies, Scheana Shay's husband. "While I acknowledge your disapproval, we remain friends."
Lala Kent, who has openly criticized Sandoval following the scandal, also managed to subtly commend him.
"In a strange, unconventional manner - regardless of whether or not you choose to criticize me - despite the widespread animosity towards Tom, he courageously continued to fulfill his commitments by performing in shows," admitted 33-year-old Lala. "Life carried on. ... If I were in his shoes, I would strongly suggest that all of you depart and leave me alone."
Raquel, 29, was absent from the panel as she did not return for season 11 of Pump Rules. According to an exclusive source, it has been nearly three months since Raquel last spoke to Sandoval. The insider further revealed that during her time at a mental health treatment facility from April onwards, Raquel decided it was best for her well-being to completely cut Tom out of her life.
Raquel’s former costar Katie Maloney said during a September appearance on the “Almost Adulting” podcast that she doesn’t “think I’m ever going to see [Raquel] again.”
