On November 26, 2024, Bravo announced that Season 12 of its reality series “Vanderpump Rules” will feature an entirely new cast, with Lisa Vanderpump remaining as the sole original member. This decision marks a pivotal shift in the show’s trajectory, which has chronicled the personal and professional lives of the staff at Vanderpump’s West Hollywood restaurant, SUR, since its debut in 2013.
The cast overhaul follows a series of tumultuous events, most notably the “Scandoval” controversy in 2023. Cast member Tom Sandoval’s affair led to significant tensions and divisions among the original ensemble. This scandal strained relationships and impacted the show’s dynamics, prompting Bravo to reconsider its direction.
Ariana Madix, who became a main cast member in Season 3, shared her thoughts on Instagram, stating, “Vanderpump Rules, you will forever be that girl… i am forever grateful to have been a part of such an incredible cultural phenomenon.”
Lala Kent, who joined the series in Season Four, expressed her mixed emotions about the change. She wrote on Instagram, “I have such mixed feelings right now. It’s no secret I do not like change. This is the exception.”
Lisa Vanderpump, the restaurateur and central figure of the series, acknowledged the transition in a press release, stating, “In the restaurant business, one shift always gives way to another. Cheers to the next generation of ‘Vanderpump Rules.’”
The decision to revamp the cast aims to return the show to its original premise, focusing on the lives of current SUR employees and their intertwined relationships. Executive producer Alex Baskin expressed enthusiasm for the new direction, stating, “What a thrill it is to build on the legacy of this series by doing it all over again. With a profound appreciation for the original group and their iconic run, we can’t wait for the audience to see a dynamic new group of co-workers and friends make their way through life together.”
While the identities of the new cast members and the premiere date for Season 12 have yet to be announced, production is slated to begin in 2025. In the meantime, Bravo plans to air a retrospective special commemorating the first eleven seasons, celebrating the journey and impact of the original cast.
As “Vanderpump Rules” embarks on this new chapter, fans and former cast members reflect on a decade of drama, friendships, and personal growth that the show has documented. The upcoming season presents an opportunity to introduce fresh narratives while honoring the legacy that has made the series a staple in reality television.