Tom Sandoval and Ariana Madix Shutterstock (2)
Tom Sandoval made a sexual joke in response to rumors that he and his ex-girlfriend Ariana Madix avoid making eye contact during season 11 of Vanderpump Rules. When asked about this, Sandoval, 41, mentioned that they rarely look at each other, even during intimate moments. He shared this information while leaving the Ziggy Hotel in West Hollywood on Thursday, August 3, to TMZ.
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Walking behind him, former costar Billie Lee couldn't help but giggle as Sandoval joked, "I'm just kidding." The ex-couple, who continue to live together, have been estranged since March when Ariana discovered Sandoval's lengthy affair with their Pump Rules costar, Raquel Leviss. After nine years of dating, they ended their relationship amidst the infidelity scandal.
In addition to addressing his current relationship with Ariana, Sandoval responded to claims made by his Special Forces co-star Nick Viall. According to Nick, he allegedly took secret photos of Sandoval and Raquel and showed them to the rest of the cast. Nick, who discussed this on his "Viall Files" podcast, mentioned that competitors are not allowed to bring certain items during the show's training process.
Sandoval clarified to TMZ that he did not display the photos boastfully, acknowledging that the training series has a solitary nature.
He continued by saying that there were no phones or distractions, but despite that, Nick mentioned on his podcast that Sandoval appeared to be a person who genuinely cared about Raquel.
Tom Sandoval, Ariana Madix, and Raquel Leviss. MediaPunch/Shutterstock
Sandoval has started filming season 11 of Pump Rules alongside fellow cast members Ariana, Scheana Shay, Lala Kent, Tom Schwartz, Katie Maloney, and James Kennedy. However, it is uncertain whether Raquel will continue to be a part of the Bravo series. Raquel was recently seen in Tucson, Arizona, visiting her family, wearing a hat that said "Be a good person."
One month before the sighting, a confidential source informed us that no decisions had been made regarding Raquel's return to the reality show. The insider stated that both parties are hopeful they can come to an agreement.
In the meantime, the remaining Pump Rules cast has already stirred up fresh drama during filming for the upcoming installment. Last month, Ariana defended Scheana, who received criticism for sharing a photo with Sandoval, on social media.
Ariana expressed on her Instagram Story that Scheana is an incredible friend who kindly took a photo with a fan on their birthday. Unfortunately, Scheana has faced criticism for this act of kindness. Ariana also mentioned that the cast always tries to pause for photos, and when everyone is present, they usually take a group picture regardless of any personal differences.
Scheana herself addressed the backlash, stating on her own Story that it's frustrating how some people fail to recognize that they are filming a television show. She emphasized that it was the fan's special day and refused to decline the request for a photo. Scheana believes in being mature and responsible, which she referred to as "adulting."