Rachel Leviss Fires Back at Ariana Madix as Tensions from ‘Scandoval’ Reach New Heights
Rachel Leviss is once again stirring up controversy, using her podcast Rachel Goes Rogue to revisit the explosive Vanderpump Rules “Scandoval” affair. Leviss, who had an affair with Tom Sandoval while he was in a nine-year relationship with her best friend, Ariana Madix, has now doubled down on her criticism of Madix during a recent podcast episode. The reality star took aim at Madix’s behavior at the Season 10 reunion, accusing her of intentionally fueling hatred towards her.
At the reunion, which was filmed just three weeks after Madix discovered the affair, Leviss claims that Madix’s harsh words and treatment of her only exacerbated the hate and death threats she was already receiving from the public. “It’s very telling to her character,” Leviss stated, suggesting that Madix could have used the opportunity to defuse the situation, drawing comparisons to celebrity feuds like that of Selena Gomez and Hailey Bieber. Leviss pointed out how other public figures have urged fans to stop sending hate, implying that Madix should have done the same.
What particularly “irked” Leviss was how Madix has thrived post-Scandoval. Since the affair was revealed, Madix has enjoyed a wave of career success, including landing major roles like hosting Love Island USA and starring in the Broadway production of Chicago as Roxie Hart. She also co-opened a restaurant, Something About Her, with her Vanderpump Rules co-star Katie Maloney. Leviss, on the other hand, has faced widespread backlash, with many seeing her actions as a betrayal of both Madix and their entire friend group.
During the reunion, Leviss had limited interaction with the cast, due to a restraining order she had placed on co-star Scheana Shay. However, when it came time for Madix to confront her former friend, the tension was palpable. Leviss has since expressed regret over the affair but feels that Madix’s actions at the reunion fanned the flames of public anger.
While Leviss continues to speak out on her podcast, Madix has remained notably silent, refusing to respond to Leviss’ accusations. Fans of Vanderpump Rules are left to wonder if this ongoing feud will spill over into the upcoming season of the show, which can be streamed on Peacock. The fallout from Scandoval may be far from over, as Leviss and Madix’s fractured relationship continues to captivate audiences.
