'They didn't murder anyone': Lisa Vanderpump opens up on Tom Sandoval and Raquel Leviss affair backlash
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Lisa Vanderpump is urging fans of 'Vanderpump Rules' to be more understanding towards Tom Sandoval and Raquel Leviss, following backlash over the news of their affair. During an episode of 'Watch What Happens Live', the reality TV star spoke out against what she sees as a form of "vigilante justice" towards the couple. Vanderpump acknowledged that being in the public eye is not an easy thing, and while she does not condone infidelity, she reminded viewers that it is a common occurrence in the world. “I think these are people that are living their life in a public forum, which is very difficult,” she continued. “There’s so much infidelity in the world. It’s not like they murdered anyone.”
The boss elaborated on the scandal, "I literally had no words," "I didn't see it coming - nobody saw it coming. I have seen Ariana and I have filmed with her. It's an integral part of the story now. I would say the word I would use [to describe her] is devastated." Additionally, she asked fans to consider the fact that Sandoval and Leviss are also experiencing emotional pain. “I’m not saying we should let them off the hook. Condemn their actions, but don’t condemn the people. All this aggression … it can have serious ramifications. I really mean that. I think everybody should be careful with that. I don’t like it and I don’t want to see it", she said.
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Lisa Vanderpump finally breaks her silence on Tom Sandoval and Raquel Leviss' scandalous affair
'Vanderpump' defends Shay's actions
It appears that co-star Scheana Shay may have been involved in the aggression alluded to by Vanderpump, as she allegedly hit Leviss upon learning about her affair with Sandoval. Vanderpump stated, "I think she [Shay] slapped her [Leviss] around the chops." However, Vanderpump was quick to defend Shay, citing her close friendship with Sandoval's ex-girlfriend, Ariana Madix. "But you know what, her feelings would be running really high because Ariana was her best friend for like 12 years. They grew up together. She very much kind of has Ariana’s back." According to sources, the altercation occurred after Madix found a sexually explicit video of Leviss on Sandoval’s phone. After calling Leviss for an explanation, a heated exchange ensued between Shay and Leviss, resulting in Leviss leaving with a black eye.
'I'm not sure my heart is up to it'
Vanderpump has addressed the affair on prior occasions. Earlier this week, Andy Cohen, the host of 'Vanderpump Rules', took to Twitter to ask how many episodes would be necessary to cover the scandalous drama that surrounds the show's reunion special. "How many parts is too many parts for the #pumprules reunion???" he tweeted.
In response to Cohen's tweet, Lisa Vanderpump, who is a former star of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and one of the original cast members of Vanderpump Rules, replied, "Ummm one." She then added, "I'm not sure my heart is up to it." Vanderpump's response indicated that she was not enthusiastic about revisiting the affair during the reunion show.