A year and a half after Rachel Leviss found herself at the center of media attention due to her highly publicized affair with her Vanderpump Rules co-star, Tom Sandoval, she has now chosen a quieter and more private path.
This shift marks a significant departure from her previous Hollywood lifestyle as she prioritizes her personal growth and well-being.
Rachel announced on her podcast, Rachel Goes Rogue, that she would be stepping away from the entertainment industry.
She launched the podcast earlier in 2024 to reflect on her journey and to share her perspective on the fallout that stemmed from her relationship with Sandoval, which fans dubbed Scandoval.
Despite her efforts to address misconceptions and heal publicly, the decision to exit the spotlight reflects a deeper need for peace and self-discovery.
The Scandoval Affair
Rachel Leviss’s involvement in a scandal, now famously known as Scandoval, became a turning point not only for her but for the reality show Vanderpump Rules.
The affair began secretly while Tom Sandoval was still in a long-term relationship with Ariana Madix, a fellow cast member and close friend of Leviss.
The shocking revelation came to light when Madix discovered explicit messages and videos between Leviss and Sandoval on his phone during one of his band performances.
This discovery led to the dramatic end of Sandoval and Madix’s nine-year relationship, igniting a media storm.
The Fallout And Backlash
Following the exposure of the affair, Leviss faced a massive public backlash. Fans and cast members alike labeled her a “homewrecker,” and the media amplified the controversy, putting her in the center of a reality TV scandal that shook the Vanderpump Rules universe.
The negative attention was overwhelming, with Leviss struggling to navigate the intense scrutiny and harsh judgment from those who had once been her supporters.
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Addressing The Consequences
In response to the fallout, Leviss chose to focus on her mental health and well-being. She spent 90 days in a mental health facility, distancing herself from the show’s drama and taking time to process her emotions.
Leviss later launched her podcast, Rachel Goes Rogue, as a platform to share her perspective, reflect on her actions, and seek understanding.
Engaging with psychological and self-help experts, she aimed to not only heal herself but also offer insights for others dealing with relationship conflicts and emotional turmoil.
Navigating Life Post-Scandal
The Scandoval controversy led to the dissolution of Sandoval’s nine-year relationship with Ariana Madix, who was once close friends with Leviss.
The backlash from fans and the media was intense, and Leviss was branded negatively as a result. In response, she spent 90 days in a mental health facility, choosing not to return for the next season of Vanderpump Rules.
Leviss used her podcast as a platform to discuss her struggles, frequently inviting experts in psychology and self-help to share insights that helped her navigate her healing process.
Despite criticism from some cast members for leveraging her storyline, she persisted, aiming to help others who may have faced similar situations.
Embracing A Healthier Lifestyle
After months of introspection, Leviss decided to turn the page. Her recent announcement signals a new chapter, one centered on personal growth and authentic relationships.
She emphasized the importance of choosing friends who provide genuine support and who value open, honest communication.
In her podcast discussions, Leviss reflected on the realization that her previous friendships, particularly those from the
Vanderpump Rules circle, were not as healthy as she initially believed.
Moving forward, she aims to build connections that align with her values and support her in becoming the person she aspires to be.
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A New Relationship And A New Outlook
In addition to her personal growth, Leviss revealed she has entered a new relationship. Unlike her past experiences, this relationship is characterized by stability and support.
Describing her partner as “very normal,” she highlighted the positive influence this individual has had on her life, noting that he prioritizes real-world values over social media fame.
Insiders close to Leviss disclosed that her new partner is a rocket engineer, someone outside the entertainment industry, further supporting her shift toward a life distanced from the spotlight.
This relationship, based on mutual respect and understanding, reflects the new path she has chosen—one that prioritizes a balanced, authentic life.
Looking Ahead
Leviss plans to divide her time between Arizona and Idaho, focusing on interests that resonate with her journey of self-improvement, such as wellness and therapy.
Her aim is to immerse herself in areas that support her holistic development while staying grounded.
While Rachel Goes Rogue will conclude, the podcast will continue under a new name and a new host.
The show will still feature Vanderpump Rules content, though Leviss will no longer be a part of it.
Her departure from both the show and the podcast is a clear message: she is committed to building a life true to her values and away from the media frenzy that once defined her existence.