Ariana Madix Moves On: Why “Vanderpump Rules” Reboot Needed a Complete Cast Shakeup
Ariana Madix, once a mainstay of the reality show “Vanderpump Rules,” has appeared nonchalant in the wake of the Tom Sandoval drama that rocked the series. This equanimity is likely due to the show’s dramatic reboot: the entire cast has been replaced for the upcoming 12th season. This shakeup wasn’t entirely unexpected.
Tension, fuelled by the behind-the-scenes feud between Madix and Sandoval, limitations on storylines with the rest of the cast weren’t enough to sustain viewer interest.
“It’s no secret that Ariana refused to film with Tom,” a source close to the situation revealed. “Their storyline was the only one viewers truly cared about, which put the producers in a difficult position.”
The absence of Madix and Sandoval presented a major obstacle for the show’s producers, who found themselves forced to rely on reaction shots, leading to a sense of stagnation.
“There’s only so many reaction scenes you can do with other cast members,” the insider explained. “To keep the show interesting, they needed Tom and Ariana to work together.”
Beyond the Madix-Sandoval conflict, whispers of financial disagreements between the network and other cast members surfaced.
Some sources speculate that salary demands from both Madix and Lala Kent became sticking points.
“Ariana doesn’t care,” about some criticisms and aguement. “She’s got so many opportunities; not being tied to the show anymore is a good thing.”
With Madix seemingly unfazed by the changes and the series forging a new path, the future of “Vanderpump Rules” remains compelling, though bittersweet for longtime fans.