Raquel Leviss Speaks Up About Relationship Choices

Raquel Leviss, 28, took to Instagram to address recent fan discussions regarding her decision to pursue a relationship with Tom Sandoval despite his ongoing relationship with Ariana Madix. Responding to the "Bravo Tea With Jared B" podcast, Raquel admitted, "You’re not wrong! I should have had more self-respect and respected the relationship Ariana had with Tom. No excuses."

This response came after a clip of host Jared Barnes discussing her interview with Bethenny Frankel started circulating. In the interview, Raquel mentioned she wouldn't have gotten involved with Sandoval, 41, if she thought he was still with Ariana, 38. However, Jared questioned why she agreed to the situation.

Cash from Cheating: Vanderpump Stars Benefit

Tom Sandoval and Raquel Leviss' cheating saga brought a surprising financial gain for several Vanderpump Rules cast members. Season 10 kicked off with a buzz in February 2023 due to Tom Schwartz's fling with Leviss during his divorce from Katie Maloney. A month later, Us Weekly confirmed Sandoval's involvement with Ariana...

Raquel admitted her decision-making was clouded by her own self-esteem issues. She acknowledged, "Looking back, I see I had low self-worth and Tom kept telling me he was actively breaking up with [Ariana] 'amicably' for her 'mental health,' which I can now see was magical thinking." She added, "It was MY responsibility to remove myself from that situation... now I know better."

In March, Us Weekly confirmed Ariana and Sandoval's split after his affair with Vanderpump Rules co-star Raquel. Sandoval claimed to have tried breaking up with Ariana before she found out, but she denied it.

Raquel, however, recently shared she no longer believes she and Sandoval were in love, despite using the "L" word during Pump Rules season 10 finale.

Complex Emotions: Raquel Opens Up

"I felt seen and heard by him," Raquel shared, reflecting on her relationship with Sandoval. "I haven't really had that connection with others in the cast or my real life. I was filming in a tumultuous environment and needing validation." She explained that Tom provided the non-judgmental space she needed at the time.

She clarified her friendship with Ariana, highlighting that they weren't as close off-screen as it seemed. "Ariana and I were not best friends," Raquel said. "She's been sweet to me, encouraged me, but we never had deep conversations."

Vanderpump Drama: Backlash and Snark

Raquel and Tom's cheating scandal brought them under scrutiny, with their Vanderpump Rules co-stars throwing shade. In March 2023, Sandoval and Ariana split after nearly a decade due to his infidelity.

After Raquel's interview, Ariana expressed more annoyance towards Bethenny than her former friend. Bethenny alleged that Ariana had "forgiven" Sandoval due to them still living together and filming Pump Rules season 11. Ariana bluntly responded, "Why are you speaking for me? I don't know you. You don't know what you're talking about, lady."

So there you have it, the real Housewives of Reality TV continue to serve up the drama, twists, and a sprinkle of comedy. Stay tuned!