Tom Sandoval admits he is feeling "overwhelmed with so many emotions" as he bids farewell to 'Vanderpump Rules'.
This week, it was confirmed that the Bravo reality show is set to return with an all-new cast, meaning Lisa Vanderpump and original co-stars including Tom, Scheana Shay, Katie Maloney, Kristen Doute, and Jax Taylor are no longer taking part.
Reacting to the news, the 41-year-old television personality - who joined the show when it first aired in 2013 - reflected on how 'Vanderpump Rules' transformed his life despite the group of friends' many ups and downs over the years and insisted none of them had any idea how much of a "cultural phenomenon" the series would become.
In a lengthy post, he wrote on Instagram alongside photographic memories from the show: "Where do I begin… I’m overwhelmed with so many emotions right now… The unbelievable series of events that brought this group together still blows my mind to this day. From a random meeting with Jax while modeling in Miami, to responding to a Craigslist ad for another Tom looking for a roommate. Who would’ve thought that a stop along the way while chasing our dreams would turn into the cultural phenomenon that is Vanderpump Rules. We were unaware as to the effect this show would have on our lives. The foundation of Vanderpump Rules was built on pure honest raw emotions… triumphs, struggles, and love that happen between a group of real friends and our relationships. As soon as we started filming s*** got real and never turned back. It’s been a roller coaster ride and you’ve been with us though every step of the way. To NBC/Universal, Bravo, Evolution, Lisa, Ken, show runners, field producers and members of the crew who busted their a****s with us in the trenches, my fellow cast mates and friends."
Tom concluded by thanking fans for sticking by them through thick and thin, while admitting he "learned valuable lessons and experienced personal growth" in the 11 years he was on the programme.
He wrote: "Most importantly, to each and every fan, THANK YOU ALL for believing us and being part of this 12 year journey. It’s hard to put into words what I’m feeling right now. As in life, so much has happened over the years. Some of my past decisions led to incredibly challenging times, from which I’ve learned valuable lessons and experienced personal growth. Despite the difficulties, I’m filled with gratitude for the learning experience and forever grateful for all of the memories.
Until we meet again,
Sandy (sic)."
His lows include his 2023 cheating scandal with his ex and co-star, Ariana Madix, 39, after he cheated on her with 30-year-old Rachel Leviss.
He admitted on one episode that he regretted his affair and acknowledged that he'd struggled to move on from the controversy.
Tom told his ex-girlfriend: "Ariana, I regret it every day. I wear it as a badge of shame. I did the thing that I said I would never do and I did it."
