A Los Angeles judge approved a final settlement in a prolonged labor dispute involving reality TV star Lisa Vanderpump and her husband, Ken Todd, on April 28. The case centered on the couple’s former restaurant, Pump, located in West Hollywood, and marks the conclusion of a nearly five-year legal journey initiated by former employees claiming various labor violations.
The couple has agreed to a gross payment of $490,000 as part of the settlement, although plaintiffs will receive a net amount of $252,638.96 after subtracting legal fees and administrative costs. The class-action lawsuit was first filed in August 2020 by Ernest R. Bennick, a former server at Pump, who alleged inadequate pay for minimum and overtime wages, improper meal breaks, and unpaid wages at the time of termination.
The settlement affects former employees who worked at Pump from August 2016 until its closure in December 2022. The restaurant ceased operations in July 2023, largely due to financial difficulties including outstanding rent and declining business performance, as stated in the defendants’ court filings.
According to the settlement breakdown, a substantial portion of the funds is designated for attorneys’ fees amounting to $163,333.33, along with $18,527.71 for legal expenses. Additional allocations include $8,000 for settlement administration, $7,500 as an enhancement award to Bennick, and $40,000 dedicated to PAGA penalties, of which $10,000 will be distributed to affected employees.
A case review hearing is set for April 2026 to confirm the proper distribution of settlement funds and ensure compliance with the agreement.
While the parties initially reached a settlement in principle, delays occurred in finalizing the agreement. Vanderpump and Todd expressed concerns about their financial status post-closure, questioning the availability of funds for the settlement. However, Bennick contested these claims, asserting that Pump retained value and highlighting that Vanderpump had opened a new location near TomTom, another restaurant co-owned by her and fellow cast members from Vanderpump Rules.
Bennick further referenced Vanderpump’s substantial net worth, reportedly around $90 million, arguing that the couple’s claims of financial hardship were not credible.
Amidst the ongoing legal scenarios, Vanderpump and Todd continue to grow their hospitality business. They announced plans to launch The Vanderpump Hotel at The Cromwell in Las Vegas in partnership with Caesars Entertainment, slated to open in early 2026.
Vanderpump remains active in the industry, owning a variety of establishments including SUR Restaurant & Lounge in Los Angeles and several venues in Las Vegas. She is also in the midst of filming the latest season of Vanderpump Rules, which is anticipated to premiere with a refreshed Season 12.
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