Tom Schwartz's Empowering Journey: Overcoming Challenges and Embracing a Bright Future Amid Katie Maloney Divorce

Participating in Fox's Stars on Mars has brought a sense of renewal to Tom Schwartz following his divorce from Katie Maloney. "I was in need of some light-heartedness and excitement," shared the 40-year-old Vanderpump Rules star exclusively with We on Friday, June 23, during his promotion of the Fox series. "Over the past few years, I have felt lost and fragmented, but being here has given me a new outlook on everything. It has given me a broader perspective, like the overview effect."

Schwartz expressed, "It’s like the experience of astronauts seeing Earth from space and having a transformative shift in perspective. Being up there allowed me to reset my mind, and I truly achieved that. I had been trapped in my own sorrowful narrative, indulging in it for the past year. But [Stars on Mars] snapped me out of it, and I feel like myself again."

Having a deep appreciation for adventure and lightheartedness, Schwartz had been in a relationship with Maloney for over ten years before they decided to part ways. The former couple, who got married in 2016, announced their separation in March 2022.

“I never anticipated the need to make an announcement of this nature. However, I believe it is essential for me to be transparent about my personal life with you,” shared the respected restaurateur of Something About Her on Instagram. “After embarking on a 12-year journey together, Tom and I have reached the difficult decision to conclude our marriage. This conclusion is not accompanied by any ill-feelings or hostility, and there are no factions to align with. We hold a profound admiration for one another that will endure, and we will always treasure our friendship.”

Tom Schwartz and Katie Maloney both expressed their feelings about their recent breakup on social media. Schwartz agreed with Maloney's statement and acknowledged that he is not the victim in this situation. Despite the sadness of the breakup, he mentioned that he respects Maloney's decision and they have had positive discussions about it. Schwartz also added that it would be even more heartbreaking if Maloney chose to stay with him while being unhappy.

Schwartz and the Utah native finalized their divorce in October 2022, reaching an agreement to share custody of their two pets.

Additionally, they mutually decided that they would refrain from getting romantically involved with anyone within their Vanderpump Rules friend group. However, Schwartz broke this agreement in August 2022 when he kissed Raquel Leviss at Scheana Shay and Brock Davies' wedding. Leviss, who was involved in a months-long affair with Schwartz's close friend Tom Sandoval during that same weekend, despite his previous nine-year relationship with Ariana Madix, caused a strain in Schwartz's relationship with Maloney.

Tom Schwartz Stephanie Augello/Shutterstock

"When it comes to shared custody of dogs and mutual best friends, setting boundaries becomes crucial," she shared on Instagram back in February. "I wasn't dictating his actions, but rather pointing out that it would lead to a toxic environment, and he agreed. We had witnessed this scenario unfold countless times within our circle of friends."

Amidst the drama surrounding Schwartz and Maloney, both during the Scandoval and the season 10 reunion that aired on Bravo in May, the TomTom cofounder is determined to carry the newfound confidence from his experience on Stars on Mars into his everyday life moving forward.

Schwartz humorously remarked, "I feel like I'm Tom, but maybe a more enhanced version, let's call it Tom 5.0." He further expressed his sense of refinement and increased resilience, stating that he feels more prepared to tackle any challenges that life may present. Reflecting on his past responses to adversity, Schwartz admitted that he hasn't always been proud of his reactions. Being on the show served as a form of therapy for him. Don't forget to catch the new episodes of Stars on Mars, airing on Fox on Mondays at 8 p.m. ET.

With reporting by Christina Garibaldi