Why Stassi Schroeder's Defense of Tom Sandoval Amid Raquel Leviss Cheating Scandal Is a Game-Changer

Stassi Schroeder and Tom Sandoval Shutterstock (2)

Stassi Schroeder has shared her thoughts on the ongoing backlash aimed at Tom Sandoval, her former Vanderpump Rules co-star, following his affair with Raquel Leviss. During an episode of the "Call Her Daddy" podcast on Wednesday, June 14th, the 34-year-old reality TV star opened up about the lasting impact of Sandoval and expressed her disapproval of the negative treatment he has received online, citing her own personal experience with public scrutiny.

"I've experienced a significant amount of hatred in the past," she stated. "It's alarming that in today's society, we resort to emotional decapitation as a form of punishment. The extreme negativity that is spread through social media is something I strongly disagree with." Schroeder questioned the validity of those who take it upon themselves to dictate the appropriate level of hate someone deserves to receive. "Who is given the authority to determine such punishment?" she asked. "Why do we allow individuals sitting behind their computer screens to decide how much hate someone should receive? I find this unacceptable and I refuse to support it."

Tom Sandoval, Ariana Madix, and Raquel Leviss. MediaPunch/Shutterstock

Despite being an original member of the Pump Rules cast before being fired from the show in 2020, the New Orleans native made it clear that her feelings towards Sandoval and his "disgusting behavior" have not shifted. However, she also expressed her skepticism towards the online backlash that he has been receiving. Sandoval has been the subject of fans' contempt since his split from Ariana Madix was revealed in March, following the news of his affair with Leviss, who is 28 years old. The former couple had been together for almost ten years before ending their relationship.

Madix bravely confronted her ex-partner in their shared home on the emotional season 10 finale of the show. As the scandal continued to unfold, Bravo cameras captured the raw footage. In the episode aired on May 17, Madix expressed her deep regret for standing up, defending, and supporting her ex. She went on to voice her disappointment by stating that he was worth nothing and wanted him to feel the weight of her words. Madix made it clear that she was ready to build a life with him, but now wanted him to hear the truth from the woman who had stood by him through thick and thin.

Madix received an outpouring of love and support from both fans and fellow cast members in the wake of Sandoval's infidelity. During part 3 of the reunion special, just two weeks after news of their breakup broke, Madix expressed her gratitude for the public's unwavering backing during a difficult time.

Through tears on the June 7 episode, Lala Kent opened up about how the support of her loved ones and even strangers kept her going during a difficult time. She revealed that she went through a week and a half without eating and lost eight pounds, feeling like she needed to be babysat and constantly watched over.

Schroeder expressed her disappointment in no longer being a part of the cast after watching the thrilling finale of season 10. She shared on a podcast that she felt her talents were not utilized to their full potential. She even jokingly mentioned that she could have teased Sandoval saying, "I always knew!"

During her time on Pump Rules, the Off With My Head author frequently clashed with Sandoval. Despite his beloved reputation, she questioned why he always seemed to receive a favorable edit, stating that his persona of being a helpful giver did not align with what she had observed.

According to Schroeder, she had always suspected the TomTom co-owner of constantly blaming others, bringing up past issues, and deflecting blame. She expressed her belief that he only looked good when the rest of the cast looked bad. In regards to the aftermath of Scandoval, the author of Next Level Basic highlighted the disturbing fact that the show's ratings have increased as Madix and Sandoval's relationship has deteriorated. She described the situation as "dark" and unsettling, stating that the show's success is directly linked to the cast's ability to hurt each other.