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In an exclusive interview with Bethenny Frankel on Just B with Bethenny Frankel, Raquel Leviss, known for her time on Vanderpump Rules, finally addressed the secret relationship she had with Tom Sandoval while hiding it from Ariana Madix. Raquel, who has been reflecting on her actions in a treatment facility, shed light on the behind-the-scenes reality of reality TV.
Raquel acknowledged that reality TV is often “edited…contrived to create a certain storyline…not all factual.” She emphasized that the role of substances in the drama was discussed, but another significant topic was the intimate video call that Sandoval recorded and later discovered by Ariana. Raquel expressed feeling wronged by both of them in that private moment.
Despite the media attention surrounding her affair with Tom Sandoval, Raquel chose to step away from the limelight after filming Season 10. She spent the following months in a treatment facility, finding solace and time for introspection.
“It’s been a whirlwind, it’s been chaos,” Raquel shared with Bethenny. “But I’ve taken some time to myself to reflect and try to understand my actions. And I finally have come to the place where it makes sense to me.”
Raquel explained that one of the reasons she needed to step away was because of the overwhelming online negativity she faced. She wanted to understand the root cause of her behavior in order to make better decisions in the future.
“I feel like I’ve been portrayed as the ultimate villain,” Raquel expressed about the aftermath of her relationship with Sandoval.
She also hinted that she might not return to Vanderpump Rules. Raquel opened up about the addictive nature of reality TV and how producers always push for participants to tell their side of the story. Otherwise, it will be written for them. This pressure was terrifying for Raquel, and she almost considered going back because of it.
Bethenny Frankel, formerly of The Real Housewives of New York, showed great empathy for Raquel’s perspective and described the public reaction to the affair as “disproportionate” at one point.
Raquel’s interview with Bethenny Frankel not only sheds light on the behind-the-scenes of reality TV but also allows Raquel to share her side of the story in a safe and supportive environment. It is a chance for her to reflect on her actions, heal, and ultimately move forward.
