Ariana Madix has shown incredible resilience amidst her turbulent breakup with Tom Sandoval, leveraging humor and strength to navigate the fallout from their highly publicized split. After Vanderpump Rules scored an Emmy nomination (July 17), the reality star turned to Instagram to celebrate. In true Madix fashion, she threw shade at Sandoval while honoring the massive achievement. 

Without hesitation, the reality star strategically covered Sandoval's image with a congratulatory sticker, thanking everyone who "makes the show great," a subtle yet pointed message to her ex. 

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Madix also included Taylor Swift's "I Can Do It With a Broken Heart" as background music, underscoring her ability to thrive despite personal turmoil. The choice of song resonates deeply, reflecting her resolve to keep performing and moving forward, much like Swift's lyrics suggest.

This celebratory post came shortly after Sandoval, 40,  sued Madix,29, for allegedly accessing and distributing explicit content of Rachel Leviss,29, from his phone without permission. The lawsuit, which was exclusively obtained by US Weekly on Tuesday, July 16, claims that Madix made copies of these videos and distributed them, a charge Madix's lawyer vehemently denies. Madix's legal team believes Sandoval is framing it as a diversion from his own misconduct. 

In the wake of these ongoing legal battles and public scrutiny, Sandoval has deactivated his Instagram account. The decision to step away from social media follows the intensifying drama surrounding his personal life and the multiple lawsuits he is facing.

Fans and media have been speculating about Sandoval's motivations for this digital hiatus, with some suggesting it is a way to avoid further public backlash while others view it as a strategic move amidst the legal turmoil. Instead of going to his personal Instagram page to leave hate, fans have resorted to his business, Schwartz and Shandy's, page.

Sandoval, his band and his girlfriend deactivated their ig accounts- but didn’t give his business partner Greg a heads up. So now Schwartz&Sandys page is being flooded by fan hate. 😅 Leave the business alone! #PumpRules

— BravoBabe (@thebravobabe_) July 17, 2024

The scandal, dubbed "Scandoval," erupted in March 2023 when Madix discovered Sandoval’s affair with their co-star Rachel "Raquel" Leviss. The affair shattered their nine-year relationship, and the fallout was captured on Vanderpump Rules, including the emotionally charged reunion filmed shortly after Madix learned of the infidelity. The show's producers quickly resumed filming to capture the intense aftermath, making it one of the most dramatic seasons in its history.

Long before the resturant owner brought Madix to court for invasion of privacy, Leviss filed a lawsuit against both Sandoval and Madix. She accussed them of eavesdropping, revenge porn, and also invasion of privacy. Leviss alleges that explicit videos of her were distributed without her consent. In court documents, the judge denied Madix's motion to dismiss the revenge porn claim, allowing Leviss's lawsuit to proceed. 

Leviss claims that Madix sent her three text messages in March 2023, including intimate videos of Leviss and a message stating, “you are DEAD TO ME.” Leviss claims that these recordings depicted her private, intimate video calls with Sandoval, which he had recorded without her knowledge. She alleges that Madix’s actions were driven by revenge and significantly worsened an already difficult situation. 

The legal battle between Madix and Sandoval extends beyond personal grievances involving significant property disputes. The ex-couple, who co-own a $2 million home in Los Angeles, are currently in mediation to resolve their property issues. Madix previously shared on Vanderpump Rules After Show, that she has requested the sale of the home and the splitting of the profits. However, Sandoval prefers to buy out her share. If they can't reach an agreement, a trial is scheduled for 2026. 

Fans are gripped by this unfolding drama, which combines elements of betrayal, legal battles, and emotional resilience. The "Scandoval" saga not only highlights the personal struggles of those involved, but also underscores the intense public scrutiny and media frenzy that accompanies high-profile reality TV stars. The ongoing legal battles and personal conflicts ensure that this story remains a significant point of discussion among fans. 

The show's filming is on hiatus, so the cast members can "take a break." Many fans believe this is a good move for the show to regroup and make a more entertaining next season — however, will it be with or without Madix? 

I’m 98.9999% sure that Sandoval just nuked Bravo’s hope that Ariana would return to #PumpRules.

I suspect a longer pause which means Lala and Scheana played Captains Save Tom for nothing. pic.twitter.com/ffjeNcsBVa

— Carlos (@carlosjharris) July 17, 2024

Fan Of View:As the legal drama between Sandoval and Madix unfolds, fans of Vanderpump Rules are speculating on how it will impact the upcoming season. Some fans believe the show will delve deep into the fallout with tensions running high, showcasing the personal and professional repercussions for all involved. The conflict could reshape alliances among the cast and bring new dynamics to the forefront – potentially leading to dramatic confrontations and emotional revelations on camera. Viewers anticipate a season filled with intense moments as the reality stars navigate the aftermath of these legal battles.

Photo Credit: @arianamadix on Instagram.