After more than a decade, Tom Sandoval is bidding farewell to the cultural phenomenon that is Vanderpump Rules, along with the rest of his co-stars.
The reality TV star said he’s “filled with gratitude” for his 11 seasons on the Bravo series after the network renewed the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills spin-off for Season 12, with a new cast joining star Lisa Vanderpump in her West Hollywood business empire.
“Where do I begin… I’m overwhelmed with so many emotions right now… The unbelievable series of events that brought this group together still blows my mind to this day,” he wrote on Instagram with a series of throwbacks from his time on the show. “From a random meeting with Jax while modeling in Miami, to responding to a Craigslist ad for another Tom looking for a roommate. Who would’ve thought that a stop along the way while chasing our dreams would turn into the cultural phenomenon that is Vanderpump Rules.
“We were unaware as to the effect this show would have on our lives. The foundation of Vanderpump Rules was built on pure honest raw emotions… triumphs, struggles, and love that happen between a group of real friends and our relationships. As soon as we started filming s— got real and never turned back. It’s been a roller coaster ride and you’ve been with us [through] every step of the way. To NBC/Universal, Bravo, Evolution, Lisa, Ken, show runners, field producers & members of the crew who busted their asses with us in the trenches, my fellow cast mates & friends. Most importantly, to each and every fan, THANK YOU ALL for believing us and being part of this 12 year journey.”
Sandoval added, “It’s hard to put into words what I’m feeling right now. As in life, so much has happened over the years. Some of my past decisions led to incredibly challenging times, from which I’ve learned valuable lessons and experienced personal growth. Despite the difficulties, I’m filled with gratitude for the learning experience and forever grateful for all of the memories. Until we meet again, Sandy”
With last week’s casting shakeup, Bravo announced the show will feature a new crop of “close-knit SUR-vers who are as complicatedly involved with one another as their iconic predecessors.” Filming is set to begin next year.
“What a thrill it is to build on the legacy of this series by doing it all over again,” said executive producer Alex Baskin of 32 Flavors. “With profound appreciation for the original group and their iconic run, we can’t wait for the audience to see a dynamic new group of co-workers and friends make their way through life together.”
After Peacock spin-off The Valley debuted earlier this year with VPR alums Jax Taylor, Kristen Doute and Brittany Cartwright, their fellow WeHo expats Tom Schwartz, Lala Kent and Scheana Shay have been announced to join Season 2.
Meanwhile, Sandoval is set to compete on Season 3 of Peacock’s The Traitors, premiering Jan. 9, following the fallout of “Scandoval,” when he cheated on long-time girlfriend Ariana Madix with VPR co-star Rachel Leviss.