In a bold move that has sent ripples through the reality television landscape, Bravo has announced the renewal of its iconic series Vanderpump Rules for a twelfth season, introducing an entirely new cast. This decision marks a significant shift for a show that has become synonymous with drama, romance, and the tumultuous lives of its original stars.
A dramatic farewell to the original cast
The announcement comes as a bittersweet farewell to beloved cast members such as Lala Kent, Katie Maloney, Tom Schwartz, and James Kennedy. Most notably, the series bids adieu to the couple whose tumultuous breakup captivated audiences: Tom Sandoval and Ariana Madix. Their relationship, marred by scandal and betrayal, was a focal point of the show, particularly during its explosive tenth season, which saw Sandoval embroiled in a cheating scandal with fellow cast member Rachel Leviss.
This scandal, dubbed Scandoval by fans, not only brought record ratings but also critical acclaim, earning Vanderpump Rules Emmy nominations for outstanding unstructured reality program in 2024 and outstanding picture editing in 2023. However, the fallout from the scandal led to a strained atmosphere during the eleventh season, with Madix reportedly refusing to film alongside Sandoval, resulting in a lackluster season.
A clean slate for season 12
As the series prepares for its twelfth season, it promises a clean slate and a fresh start. Under the guidance of Lisa Vanderpump, the iconic restaurateur and reality star, the West Hollywood hotspot SUR, along with TomTom, will welcome a new generation of servers, hosts, and bartenders. A recent press release from NBCUniversal hinted at the potential for new drama, relationships, and rivalries, stating, “The next batch of servers, hosts, and bartenders is rife with plenty of drama, situationships, and frenemies.”
Vanderpump herself expressed gratitude for the past twelve years, stating, “The last 12 years of filming have been an extraordinary run full of laughter, tears, and everything in between.” Her heartfelt message reflects the emotional investment that both cast and fans have made in the series over the years.
What lies ahead for the franchise
While the original cast members may have exited the spotlight, they have not been entirely cast out of the Vanderpump universe. Spin-off series The Valley, which airs on Peacock, continues to follow former stars, including Kristen Doute and Jax Taylor, providing a soft landing for those who wish to remain connected to the franchise.
Production for season 12 is set to commence next year, with details regarding the premiere date and new cast members to be revealed in due course. As the franchise embarks on this new chapter, fans are left to wonder whether fresh faces will reinvigorate the series or if the absence of familiar personalities will leave a void too large to fill. Regardless, the legacy of Scandoval and the unforgettable moments it created will forever remain a part of Vanderpump Rules’ history.
