In early March, Ariana Madix’s world turned upside down when it was revealed that her boyfriend of nine years, Tom Sandoval, was cheating on her with her close friend and fellow Vanderpump Rules costar Rachel “Raquel” Leviss. What followed was a surreal chain of events for Madix as “Scandoval” gripped the nation, setting social media ablaze and breathing new life into the Bravo reality series.
A longtime fan favorite thanks to her refreshing mix of girl’s-girl energy and vulnerability, Madix was suddenly the TV star everyone everywhere was rooting for. As the demise of her relationship played out IRL and on the show (production on season 10 resumed as soon as the news broke), the Florida native, 38, released breakup merch, was cast in a Lifetime movie and even got invited to the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Her now-iconic confrontation with Sandoval during the season finale was a master class in badassery, and in September, it was announced she was joining season 32 of Dancing With the Stars.
Eight months after the drama unfolded, Madix — who’s been dating New York–based fitness coach Daniel Wai since April — says she feels more confident than ever and is focused on looking forward. “This situation made me realize that I can do hard things,” she tells Us. “The worst-case scenario literally did happen, and I was OK. Like, look — you can handle what’s thrown at you.” Madix sat down with Us on the set of her cover shoot in L.A. to talk about what’s next for her.
Were you aware of how big Scandoval was when it was happening?
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
SCENES FROM Keke's Life
The multihyphenate mom entertains and empowers with a new book that's part memoir, part self-help guide
They Found Their Happily Ever After!
Bachelorette Joan Vassos gave her final rose to Chock Chapple and he gave her aring! In an Us exclusive, they talk about tying the knot not too soon), blending families and changing a black hole” of a future to one of hope
Jennifer Love Hewitt Turning Grief Into Growth
It's been 12 years since the actress lost her adored mom, but with a new book and TV movie, she faces up to the pain and reveals how tiny gestures and good intentions have brought magic back into her life
Charles & William Game of Thrones
As King Charles continues his cancer battle, plans for his son Prince William to succeed him are underway. Sources shed light on how the inevitable changing of the guard is causing tension behind palace doors
Jennifer Talks Money, Movies & Living in a Haunted House!
She's one of the most iconic actresses in Hollywood. But Jennifer Coolidge admits that there are a few misconceptions about her.
The Early Aughts Are in Fashion Again
The controversial looks of the 2000s seem to have come back around dazzlingly fast - so what is it about Y2K that's making stylish stars try their luck with low-rise jeans?
Why Joaquim & Gisele Aren't Rushing Into Marriage
They may be expecting, but Gisele Bündchen and Joaquim Valente are in no rush to tie the knot.
Inside Teddi's Affair with Her Horse Trainer
It seems we finally have answers as to what may have led to the sudden split of Teddi Mellencamp and Edwin Arroyave: The RHOBH alum had an affair with her married horse trainer, Simon Schroeder (inset).
Blessed With a Rainbow Baby
The couple are thrilled and excited” to be expecting following a devastating pregnancy loss
Ted Danson on Secret to Marriage With 'Magnificent' Mary Steenburgen
Ted Danson has worked with thousands of creatives in his nearly 50-year acting careerand out of all of Hollywood, there's one name he's eager to see on the call sheet again.
