The popular Bravo reality series “Vanderpump Rules,” known for its dramatic storylines, celebrity endorsements, and numerous memes, is set to undergo significant changes for its twelfth season. The show, which has captivated audiences since its 2013 debut, will introduce a brand-new cast, with the exception of its creator and star, Lisa Vanderpump.
In an announcement made by Bravo on Tuesday, the network revealed that the upcoming season would showcase “a new group of close-knit SUR-vers who are as intricately involved with each other as the previous, iconic cast.” Vanderpump initially emerged as the face of the show, which spun off from “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” focusing on the personal lives of the employees at her West Hollywood restaurant, SUR.
The series thrived on elements such as relationship turmoil, infidelities, shifting alliances, and a wealth of drama that seemed predestined for reality television audiences. Vanderpump remarked in a pre-launch interview that the show’s appeal lay in the youth and energy of its cast. “They’re 20-something and they’re young and they’re hot,” she noted. “They want to play and they’re waiting for their dream, but unfortunately, their dream isn’t really to work at my restaurant.”
While Bravo did not elaborate on the selection of a new cast, it confirmed that additional details would follow, with filming for the new season expected to commence next year. Vanderpump, reflecting on the past, expressed deep appreciation for those who have participated in the show, saying, “I can’t thank enough those who have shared their lives. How I love you all. In the restaurant business, one shift always gives way to another.”
As the original cast gained notoriety, many moved on from working at SUR to pursue their ventures, with Tom Schwartz and Tom Sandoval opening a bar and restaurant called TomTom, backed by Vanderpump. However, their second establishment, Schwartz & Sandy’s, announced its closure on Monday, signaling yet another twist in their evolving business journey.
The show gained significant traction earlier this year following the unveiling of an affair, infamously dubbed “Scandoval.” Sandoval, who was in a long-term relationship with co-star Ariana Madix, engaged in a romantic entanglement with fellow cast member Rachel “Raquel” Leviss. This revelation emerged after Season 10 filming wrapped, prompting the crew to resume filming for a special episode that dealt with the aftermath, leading to a three-part reunion shortly thereafter.
As the cast prepared for Season 11, Leviss was absent, with Sandoval attempting to reconcile with his fellow cast members. Madix continued to film alongside him but avoided any direct interaction, creating tension within the group. During the reunion, she emotionally stated, “I just want you away from me,” leading to the news that production on the show was temporarily suspended.
Several main cast members have yet to publicly comment on the transition, although some have shared their mixed emotions on social media. Madix expressed a sense of closure, posting, “I’m feeling at peace with closing this chapter and I’m excited for everything that is to come.” She acknowledged that while these may not have been the best days of her life, they held a special significance.
Despite the challenges, Madix emerged as a fan favorite, securing various endorsement deals, participating in “Dancing with the Stars,” and taking on the role of Roxie Hart in “Chicago” on Broadway. She also opened a sandwich shop in Los Angeles, Something About Her, alongside fellow cast member Katie Maloney.
Maloney, reflecting on her journey, stated, “It’s a mixed bag. But I wouldn’t change a thing.” Her once-volatile marriage with Tom Schwartz was also a focal point of the series. Lala Kent, meanwhile, shared her feelings about the changes, admitting that while she generally dislikes change, she viewed this particular shift as an exception. She capitalized on the drama from Scandoval through merchandise sales and related discussions on her podcast.
Kent, along with Schwartz and other members, will make appearances in the second season of the spin-off “The Valley,” set to air next year. This series features Kristen Doute, another former “Vanderpump Rules” star, along with Stassi Schroeder, both of whom were let go in 2020 for racially charged remarks. Bravo is also planning a retrospective for the original series, slated for 2025.