Raquel Leviss has addressed the allegations of an affair with Tom Sandoval while he was in a relationship with Ariana Madix. In an exclusive statement to ET, Leviss provided her insights into the situation.
Read her statement in full:
“I want to apologize for my actions and my choices foremost to Ariana, and to my friends and the fans so invested in our relationships. There is no excuse, I am not a victim and I must own my actions and I deeply regret hurting Ariana.
I am reflecting on my choices, speaking to a counselor and I am learning things about myself such as my patterns of codependency and addiction to being and feeling loved. I have sought emotional validation through intimate connections that are not healthy without regard for my own well-being, sometimes negatively affecting others and often prioritizing the intimate connection over my friendships. I am taking steps to understand my behavior and make healthier choices.
Although I chose to be on a reality show accepting the good and bad that comes with it, beyond my own actions I have been physically assaulted, lost friendships, received death threats and hate emails in addition to having had my privacy violated.
I have begun counseling to end my unhealthy behavioral cycle, learn to set stronger emotional boundaries and learn to protect my mental health. I don’t expect sympathy, understanding or forgiveness. Right now I must focus on my own health and well-being and as I strive to be a better person moving forward, I will prioritize my mental health and learn from my mistakes.” – Raquel Leviss
Leviss sent legal letters to Sandoval and her Vanderpump Rules castmates regarding a reported affair. ET obtained a copy of the letter Leviss’ legal team sent to Sandoval, which noted that recording their intimate exchange on Facetime is illegal in California and could lead to civil and criminal penalties. The letter also requested Sandoval delete the video and inform Leviss’ legal team of any people who have seen it.
A source told ET that Leviss’ letters are intended to inform the cast of the seriousness of the situation, with the goal of preventing the video from being released. Earlier this month, news of Sandoval and Leviss’ alleged affair broke, with a source noting that Ariana felt disrespected, leading her to end the relationship. Another source noted that the incident created a major divide in the group, with them rallying around Ariana. In response, Sandoval called it “a very personal thing” in an Instagram post.
I sincerely apologize for the hurt I have caused and understand the anger and disappointment this situation has caused. I want to make it clear that Tom Schwartz had no knowledge of this situation until recently and does not condone my actions.
Tom’s apology to Ariana was heartfelt, acknowledging his mistakes, selfishness and reckless behavior that caused her immense pain and distress. As neither Ariana nor Tom have any desire to reunite, the split appears to be final. Ariana is understandably devastated and will require time to process the betrayal.