Tom Sandoval, a star of “Vanderpump Rules,” has publicly announced the termination of his legal representation just days after initiating a lawsuit against his former partner, Ariana Madix. This development follows the controversial decision to take legal action against Madix, with whom he had a relationship for nearly a decade.
In a lengthy Instagram post on Thursday, Sandoval explained the circumstances leading to his former lawyer’s dismissal. He detailed receiving advice from Matt Geragos, his attorney until recently, regarding a cross-complaint filed as part of the ongoing lawsuit. Sandoval conveyed that he was assured the action was a common defensive measure in legal disputes of this nature.
However, Sandoval later clarified that the implications of the terms “new lawsuit” and “suing” were not fully explained to him at the time of their discussion. This miscommunication prompted further scrutiny on his part and led to his decision to part ways with Geragos. “I should’ve done more of my due diligence on the matter,” Sandoval admitted in his post.
Moreover, Sandoval emphasized that he is not pursuing legal action against Madix personally. He stated his intention to withdraw the actions taken against her and expressed his desire to resolve the issues amicably. “In no way am I suing Ariana. The action against Ariana brought on my behalf is being removed. I hold no ill will or vindictiveness toward Ariana,” he wrote.
This legal turmoil follows the dramatic end to Sandoval and Madix’s relationship in March 2023. The split was fueled by the revelation of Sandoval’s affair with Rachel “Raquel” Leviss, a former co-star, which came to light after Madix discovered an intimate video during a FaceTime call on Sandoval’s phone.
The saga continued as Leviss later initiated a lawsuit against both Sandoval and Madix, alleging that Madix had sent herself the NSFW video without consent, a move that Leviss described as revenge porn. Sandoval’s subsequent lawsuit against Madix claimed she accessed explicit videos on his phone without permission.
The unfolding legal battles and public disputes have thrust the personal lives of these “Vanderpump Rules” stars into the spotlight, resonating far beyond their television fame. Sandoval’s recent actions indicate a desire to quickly conclude these matters. “I hope to move forward with the legal matter quickly, so that everyone involved can move on with their lives,” he stated, signaling a wish to close this tumultuous chapter.
As this story continues to develop, the repercussions within their personal and professional circles are yet to be fully seen, highlighting the complex intersections of privacy, consent, and public persona in today’s reality TV landscape.