The Sunday Read: ‘How Tom Sandoval Became the Most Hated Man in America’
"The Daily" dives into the intricate world of reality television with speakers Irina Aleksander and Adrienne Hurst as they unfold the multi-layered narrative of "Vanderpump Rules." This episode offers a deep analysis of how the show has evolved over the years, transforming its cast members from aspiring artists to reality stars. With a special focus on Tom Sandoval, the episode reveals how constant media exposure influences personal and professional lives, and how the lines between real experiences and entertainment can blur.
This episode also takes listeners behind the scandal that shocked viewers and disrupted the lives of those involved. Discover the story behind "Scandival," the cheating affair that spiraled Tom Sandoval into the eye of a media storm, revealing not only the scandal's impact on Sandoval’s life but also how it affected the trajectories of others in the cast. "The Daily" offers a unique perspective on the delicate dynamics at play when personal drama collides with public spectacle, probing the complexities of navigating fame in the ever-evolving landscape of reality TV.
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1-Page Summary
Vanderpump Rules as an Unprecedented Reality TV Show
"Vanderpump Rules" marks a distinct presence in reality television by continuously tracking the lives and fame of its cast members, like Tom Sandoval, as they evolve from aspiring talents to actual stars. The show diverges from others by featuring a consistent cast over multiple seasons, which develops a unique meta-reality as the cast transitions from waitstaff to prominent figures in their own right. Sandoval personifies this shift, having altered from an aspiring actor to a figure ingrained in the reality TV world, demonstrating the profound effects of long-term exposure to fame within the industry.
The Cheating Scandal That Became "Scandival"
The sensational adulterous affair between Tom Sandoval and Raquel Leviss, dubbed "Scandival," escalated "Vanderpump Rules" to a new level of public interest. Sandoval's betrayal of Ariana Maddox with Leviss was uncovered mid-season, creating a scandalous narrative that caught the attention of national media outlets and skyrocketed the show's ratings. The public and media frenzy that ensued as details unraveled exemplified how reality TV can captivate and engage a wide audience beyond traditional viewership.
Personal and Professional Fallout
The scandal between Sandoval and Leviss resulted in severe personal and professional consequences. Sandoval faced social ostracization and detrimental impacts on his businesses, compounded by a severe toll on his mental health. Leviss underwent a significant identity shift and isolated herself from the public eye. In contrast, Maddox saw her career flourish as public sympathy translated into a series of high-profile opportunities, reflecting the varied aftermath of such controversies on different individuals.
Behind the Scenes of Vanderpump Rules
Executive producer Alex Baskin provides insight into how "Vanderpump Rules" adapts its narrative to accommodate the blended realities of its stars. The show evolves into a "hyper-reality," adjusting its production to include more of the cast's actual lives, as it did when filming the fallout from the "Scandival" incident. This reflects a more complex production environment, as the boundary between the cast's on-screen drama and real-life experiences becomes increasingly porous.
The Reality of Being a Reality Star
Reality stars like Sandoval encounter unique financial benefits and challenges. They're able to diversify their income through various ventures outside the show, but they lack the protections afforded to traditional actors. The blurring of real life with on-screen storylines creates additional complications, requiring stars to navigate a complex world where personal experiences can be scrutinized and repackaged as entertainment.
Sandoval's Conflicted Feelings About the Show
Despite the ordeal and stress associated with his role in "Vanderpump Rules," Sandoval remains committed to the show. He articulates the dual nature of reality TV—it's a source of personal turmoil, yet also provides a valuable platform for exposure and material gain. Sandoval hopes to rehabilitate his image and explore new opportunities, revealing an understanding of the reality TV cycle and a determination to leverage his experience for future success.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Reality stars like Tom Sandoval can earn money through various avenues beyond their show, such as sponsored content, appearances, and merchandise sales. However, they may face challenges like lack of job security, privacy invasion, and the pressure to maintain a certain public image. The financial landscape for reality stars is dynamic, with income streams often tied to their popularity and ability to stay relevant in the public eye. Balancing financial gains with the demands of fame can present a unique set of opportunities and obstacles for reality TV personalities.
- Navigating personal experiences in the context of reality TV involves managing the blurred lines between one's real life and the persona portrayed on screen. Reality stars like Tom Sandoval must balance authenticity with the demands of entertainment, as their personal struggles and relationships are often magnified for dramatic effect. This dynamic can lead to challenges in maintaining boundaries and protecting one's privacy while engaging with an audience hungry for compelling narratives. The exposure and scrutiny that come with reality TV fame can complicate how personal experiences are perceived and exploited for the sake of entertainment.
Counterarguments
- While "Vanderpump Rules" may track the lives of its cast members over multiple seasons, this is not unique to the show; other reality TV series also follow their cast members over long periods, such as "The Real Housewives" franchise or "Keeping Up with the Kardashians."
- The idea that the cast transitions from waitstaff to prominent figures may not be entirely unprecedented, as other reality shows have also documented the rise to fame of their participants.
- The evolution of Tom Sandoval could be seen as a typical reality TV star trajectory rather than a unique phenomenon.
- The increase in public interest and ratings due to the "Scandival" scandal could be argued as a common occurrence in reality TV, where scandals often lead to spikes in viewership.
- The personal and professional consequences of the scandal might be similar to what other reality TV stars have faced in the wake of public controversies.
- Ariana Maddox's career flourishing post-scandal could be attributed to factors other than public sympathy, such as her own efforts and talents.
- The adaptation of the narrative to include more of the cast's actual lives is a technique used by many reality TV shows to maintain viewer engagement.
- The creation of a "hyper-reality" is not exclusive to "Vanderpump Rules," as many reality shows blend on-screen drama with the real lives of their stars.
- The financial benefits and challenges faced by reality stars are common across the genre, and not specific to the cast of "Vanderpump Rules."
- Sandoval's commitment to the show despite stress could be seen as a calculated decision that many reality TV stars make, weighing the pros and cons of continued participation in the genre.
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Vanderpump Rules as an Unprecedented Reality TV Show
"Vanderpump Rules" has become a unique phenomenon in the reality TV landscape. Now in its 11th season, the show stands out by tracking the evolving life and fame of its cast, especially Tom Sandoval.
Cast evolves into reality stars themselves
Unlike early reality series like "Big Brother" and "Survivor," which featured a rotating cast each season, or other shows with consistent casts like "The Hills" that didn't last as long, "Vanderpump Rules" has charted new territory. Initially aspiring models and actors, the cast members became reality TV stars. Working in a high-end Los Angeles restaurant, they showcased luxury despite their service industry jobs, driving nice cars and buying expensive houses.
Show becomes "meta"
"Vanderpump Rules" has transformed into a meta-reality show about the lives of reality stars, not just waitstaff. The narrative arcs cover a breadth of real-life events - from divorces to ambitious professional projects like starting cover bands and opening bars. The show captures its own reflection on the nature of reality TV, with cast members like Sandoval beginning to speak about their lives in terms of seasons and episodes, revealing the show's impact on personal identities and perceptions of reality.
At SUR, the restaurant where it all started, cameras constantly film the cast - now the establishment's main attraction. This dynamic has turned dining there into a "meta" experience. Even the evolution set for the confessionals mimics another room in SUR, deepening the show's layered reality.
Tom Sandoval exemplifies how reality TV fame changes a person
The journey of Tom Sandoval serves as a prime example of the tra ...
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Vanderpump Rules as an Unprecedented Reality TV Show
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- A "meta-reality show" is a type of reality TV program that goes beyond just showcasing the lives of its cast members. It delves into self-referential storytelling, exploring the impact of being on a reality show on the cast members themselves. This genre often blurs the lines between reality and the constructed narratives of reality TV, creating a layered viewing experience for the audience. In essence, a meta-reality show reflects on its own nature and the effects of fame and exposure on its participants.
- SUR is a high-end restaurant in Los Angeles owned by Lisa Vanderpump, a central figure in the reality TV show "Vanderpump Rules." The restaurant serves as the primary setting for the show, where the cast members work and interact. SUR has become a key location for filming, providing a backdrop for the unfolding drama and personal stories of the cast members. The restaurant's ambiance and the interactions among the staff and patrons at SUR play a significant role in shaping the narrative of the show.
- Tom Sandoval, a cast member on "Vanderpump Rules," has undergone a noticeable transformation on the show. His behavior has shifted from a more innocent and aspiring actor to someone who is now often late, hard to contact, and seemingly preoccupied during conversations. This change is attributed to the effects of constant filming for the reality TV series, which has led to shifts in ...
Counterarguments
- While "Vanderpump Rules" may have a unique approach, it is not the only reality show to follow its cast over a long period; other shows like "The Real Housewives" franchise also track the lives of their cast members over multiple seasons.
- The portrayal of luxury may not accurately reflect the true financial and personal lives of the cast members, as reality TV often amplifies or fabricates certain aspects for entertainment.
- The concept of a meta-reality show is not exclusive to "Vanderpump Rules"; other shows have also explored the lives of reality stars within their format, such as "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" and "Keeping Up with the Kardashians."
- The show's focus on real-life events can sometimes lead to the exploitation of personal issues for ratings, which raises ethical concerns about the boundaries of reality TV.
- The impact of reality TV on personal identities can be seen as both a positive and negative influence, with some arguing that it can lead to self-awareness while others believe it promotes a distorted sense of self.
- The "meta" experience of dining at SUR might not be universally appealing, as some patrons may prefer a traditional dining experience without the presence of cameras and production crews.
- The evolution set for the confessionals, while adding to the show's layered reality, could also be seen as a contrived attempt to maintain viewer interest as the novelty of the show wears off.
- Tom Sandoval's transformation could be interpreted different ...
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The Cheating Scandal That Became "Scandival"
The affair between Tom Sandoval and Rachel Levis, which became known as "Scandival," turned the reality show "Vanderpump Rules" into a nationwide sensation. The scandal unfolded on the TV show Vanderpump Rules, engaging viewers who dissected previous episodes for hints and elevated the program to one of the most-watched cable series.
Sandoval's affair with Raquel Leviss (Rachel Levis)
Tom Sandoval cheated on his longtime girlfriend, Ariana Maddox, with her best friend, Rachel Levis. An intimate recording of Leviss discovered on Sandoval's dropped phone during his band performance became a striking event. Referred to as "Scandival," it gained widespread attention, dominating social media and cable television.
Affair revealed dramatically mid-season
The affair was dramatically uncovered mid-season, with Sandoval intending to inform Maddox about the affair after the season aired, not wanting it to play out on the show. However, the revelation unfolded with considerable drama, including a confrontation between Maddox and Sandoval behind Tom Tom, escalating to a physical altercation.
Following the revelation, viewers dove into earlier episodes, looking for hints or clues that might have pointed t ...
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The Cheating Scandal That Became "Scandival"
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- "Scandival" is a portmanteau of "scandal" and "Vanderpump," referring to the affair between Tom Sandoval and Rachel Levis on the reality show "Vanderpump Rules." This scandal gained widespread attention, dominating social media and elevating the show's viewership. The term encapsulates the dramatic and controversial nature of the affair, becoming a focal point of discussion both on and off the show. It played a significant role in propelling the show to national prominence and sparking intense engagement among viewers.
- "Vanderpump Rules" is a reality TV show that follows the lives of employees working at Lisa Vanderpump's restaurants in West Hollywood, primarily SUR. The show focuses on the drama, relationships, and conflicts among the staff members, showcasing their personal and professional lives. It premiered in 2013 and quickly gained popularity for its mix of romance, friendship dynamics, and workplace tensions. The series is known for its intertwining storylines, featuring a cast of vibrant personalities navigating the challenges of working in the restaurant industry while balancing their personal aspirations and relationships.
- Tom Sandoval and Ariana Maddox were cast members on the reality show "Vanderpump Rules." They were in a relationship when Tom cheated with Rachel Levis, who was a close friend of Ariana. Rachel Levis is also known as Raquel Leviss.
- Tom Tom is a popular bar and restaurant in West Hollywood, co-owned by Tom Sandoval and Tom Schwartz, who are both cast members of "Vanderpump Rules." The establishment is frequently featured on the reality show, serving as a backdrop for various dramatic moments and interactions among the ...
Counterarguments
- The focus on "Scandival" may overshadow more significant societal issues that deserve media attention.
- The scandal's entertainment value could be seen as trivializing the real emotional harm caused by infidelity.
- The portrayal of the affair and subsequent drama on television might contribute to a culture that normalizes and even glamorizes cheating.
- The intense scrutiny by viewers and the media could be considered an invasion of privacy for those involved.
- The surge in viewership might not solely be attributed to the scandal but could also be due to other factors such as marketing strategies or concurrent storylines.
- The coverage by esteemed outlets l ...
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Personal and Professional Fallout
The aftermath of the scandal involving Tom Sandoval and Raquel Leviss has led to dramatic personal and professional consequences, with Sandoval facing intense vitriol and isolation, Leviss checking into a mental health facility and changing her identity, and Ariana Maddox finding career success amid the sympathy she garnered.
Sandoval endures vitriol and isolation
After becoming embroiled in a major scandal, Tom Sandoval has become the "ultimate villain," facing what might be perceived as the worst year of his life personally. He received widespread negative reactions and mean online messages that seem to equate to severe social condemnation.
Friends and family distance themselves
Sandoval’s personal life faltered as close friends and family distanced themselves from him. Not only did friends step back, but his own brother requested for their photos to be removed from social media. As a result, Sandoval faced a notable period of isolation.
Businesses suffer due to association
Professionally, the fallout impacted Sandoval's businesses. The scandal led to quieter nights at his venue Tom Tom as it was off the production season, with significantly diminished patronage. Additionally, the reputation of Schwartz and Sandy's, a lounge he co-owns, was tarnished as its Yelp reviews plummeted.
Experiences severe mental health impacts
The overwhelming backlash from the public, which included harsh words from celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence and Amy Schumer, contributed to a decline in Sandoval's mental health. He spoke of feeling betrayed, suffered from depression, and at one point during a reunion show, erupted with a plea to stop filming. Friends became so concerned about his well-being that they suggested medication, such as Wellbutrin. Turning away from alcohol, Sandoval grappled with the dark mental spaces he found himself in following the events with Leviss.
Leviss enters facility and changes identity
Raquel Leviss sought refuge in a mental health facility in Arizona f ...
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Personal and Professional Fallout
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Tom Sandoval faced intense negative reactions due to his involvement in a major scandal, which led to widespread social condemnation. The backlash stemmed from his actions during the scandal, which were perceived negatively by the public and even criticized by celebrities. This resulted in a significant decline in his personal and professional reputation, leading to isolation and mental health struggles.
- Tom Sandoval experienced mental health impacts such as feeling betrayed, depression, and seeking medication like Wellbutrin. The overwhelming backlash from the public, including criticism from celebrities, contributed to his decline in mental well-being. Sandoval's struggles led to moments of emotional distress, including a plea to stop filming during a reunion show. Friends and loved ones were concerned about his mental state, suggesting interventions like medication and support.
- Tom Sandoval's businesses, including Tom Tom and Schwartz and Sandy's, suffered a decline in patronage and reputation following the scandal involving him and Raquel Leviss. The negative fallout led to quieter nights at Tom Tom and a decrease in Yelp reviews for Schwartz and Sandy' ...
Counterarguments
- Sandoval's vitriol and isolation could be seen as a consequence of his actions, and some might argue that facing repercussions is a part of taking responsibility.
- The personal and professional fallout for Sandoval might be viewed as temporary, with potential for recovery and redemption over time.
- Friends and family distancing themselves could be a natural reaction to scandal, but it could also be argued that true friends and supportive family should offer help rather than distance in tough times.
- The impact on Sandoval's businesses might not solely be due to the scandal; other factors such as economic conditions or competition could also play a role.
- While Sandoval's mental health issues are serious, some might argue that seeking help and treatment could lead to personal growth and better coping strategies.
- Leviss checking into a mental health facility could be seen as a responsible step towards healing rather than just an escape from the situation.
- Leviss changing ...
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Behind the Scenes of Vanderpump Rules
"Vanderpump Rules," a spinoff of "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," is known for its rich premise and intoxicating drama, both on-screen and off. Alex Baskin, one of the executive producers, has provided insights into the show's development and how it adapts to the intertwined realities of its stars.
Show conceived through rich premise and characters
Baskin saw potential in an "incestuous friend group" where everyone was dating or living with each other, laying a foundation for a riveting narrative. At the heart of "Vanderpump Rules" is a captivating dynamic stemming from real-life relationships that drive the show's premise and appeal.
Evolves into "hyper-reality" about reality stars
However, as the show's popularity soars, it transforms into a sort of "hyper-reality." The lines between the show and the personal lives of the stars blur, intensifying the stakes. This evolution is so significant that producers, who had once been strict about maintaining the fourth wall, find themselves adjusting to allow the cast's off-screen lives to become part of the storyline, as occurred with events like the personality tours and the drama centered around Tom Tom. Cast member Sandoval even refers to the filming atmosphere as "toxic," hinting at the strain and ...
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Behind the Scenes of Vanderpump Rules
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- In reality TV, "maintaining the fourth wall" means keeping a clear boundary between the production crew and the cast, ensuring that the audience sees the show as a genuine depiction of the cast's lives without acknowledging the presence of the filming process. Breaking the fourth wall occurs when this boundary is breached, such as when cast members directly address the camera or acknowledge they are on a TV show, disrupting the illusion of reality for the viewers. This technique is commonly used in scripted shows and movies to maintain the suspension of disbelief, but in reality TV, breaking the fourth wall can add a layer of complexity and self-awareness to the narrative.
- In the context of reality TV production, when cast member Sandoval referred to the filming atmosphere as "toxic," he was likely expressing the negative impact of the show's heightened drama and the blurring of lines between reality and ente ...
Counterarguments
- The "incestuous friend group" premise may not be a novel concept and can be seen as a common trope in reality television, potentially lacking originality.
- The appeal of the show could be argued to be not just from real-life relationships but also from the editing and production choices that amplify drama.
- The evolution into "hyper-reality" might be seen as a negative development, as it can distort the authenticity of the cast's experiences for entertainment purposes.
- Including off-screen lives in the storyline could be criticized for potentially invading the privacy of the cast members and exploiting their personal lives.
- The blurring of lines between the show and personal lives might raise ethical concerns about the well-being of the cast and the impact on their real relationships.
- The rapid response to the Scandival incident, while showcasing production agility, could also be cri ...
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The Reality of Being a Reality Star
Tom Sandoval and other reality stars reveal the multifaceted and complex world of reality television, which involves financial intricacies and personal challenges that aren't normally faced by traditional actors.
Financial complexities from show revenue vs. brand damage
The stars of "Vanderpump Rules" have experienced a range of financial outcomes due to their participation in the show. Sandoval and his fellow cast members only made $10,000 for the entire first season, although their earnings have risen significantly since then, with current figures around $35,000 per episode. They have also managed to create additional revenue through books, podcasts, and brand partnerships, some of which pay quite handsomely—in some cases, upwards of $250,000.
This income is sometimes tied directly to their on-screen personas, such as when Sandoval and Maddox profited from their bartender roles through a book and branded videos. However, Sandoval indicates that since his breakup with Ariana Maddox, their respective opportunities and public personae have diverged, leading to varying impacts on their income potential. Post-scandal, brand partnerships are wary of associating with Sandoval due to his reputation.
Lala Kent's story arc on the show also displays how reality TV can reflect and influence personal financial situations, as viewers watched her transition from being financially supported by a wealthy partner to dealing with custody battles and becoming the main earner.
Lack of protections compared to actors
Unlike scripted TV actors who are protected by the Screen Actors Guild, reality TV participants don't have the same safety nets. They are not entitled to residuals or union pay minimums, for example. Bethenny Frankel has suggested that reality stars should consider unionizing in order to negotiate for benefits like residuals, emphasizing the lack of standard protections that actors re ...
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The Reality of Being a Reality Star
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Clarifications
- The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) is a labor union that represents film and television performers. It negotiates agreements for fair compensation and working conditions, protects members' performances, and expands work opportunities. SAG merged with AFTRA in 2012 to form SAG-AFTRA, a union for performers in various media. SAG is known for its advocacy for actors' rights and its role in awarding the Screen Actors Guild Awards.
- Residuals are additional payments made to actors when their work is reused or rebroadcast. Unlike scripted TV actors, reality TV participants do not receive residuals for their appearances on the show. Residuals are a form of ongoing compensation that provides actors with additional income each time their work is shown again. This system helps ensure that actors continue to benefit financially from their past performances.
- Union pay minimums are the minimum rates of pay that unionized workers are entitled to receive for their work. In the context of actors, being part of a union like the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) ensures they are paid at least a certain amount for their performances in TV shows or movies. These minimums help protect actors from being underpaid and ensure they receive fair compensation for their work. Reality TV participants, who are not typically part of actors' unions, do not benefit from these guaranteed minimum rates of pay.
- Bravo is a cable television network known for producing reality TV shows like "Vanderpump Rules." It is part of the NBCUniversal Television and Streaming division, focusing on lifestyle and entertainment programming. Bravo has gained popularity for its reality shows that offer a glimpse into the lives of various individuals, including ...
Counterarguments
- Reality stars often voluntarily choose to participate in these shows, knowing the potential for financial gain and personal exposure.
- The financial complexities and potential brand damage are risks inherent in many public-facing careers, not just reality TV.
- Some reality stars successfully leverage their TV fame to build lasting careers and businesses, indicating that the financial and brand risks can be managed effectively.
- Unionization in any industry can be a complex issue, and not all reality stars may agree that unionization is the best path forward for their interests.
- The lack of protections for reality TV participants is part of the broader gig economy issue, where many types of workers lack traditional benefits and job security.
- The difficulty in separ ...
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Sandoval's Conflicted Feelings About the Show
Sandoval openly discusses the complex emotions he experiences as a result of his participation in "Vanderpump Rules," grappling with its negative impact on his personal life and the stress it often entails.
Sees personal damage but overall positive impact
Despite the challenges, Sandoval feels a sense of honor in being part of "Vanderpump Rules," appreciating the platform and the attention the show has garnered. He acknowledges the personal difficulties it has caused, including confronting confrontations on set and the overall stress of filming. His life has become more complex due to the show, but he also recognizes the material benefits and visibility it affords him. This duality is evident as he mentions that while the show does have its fun moments, it mostly "sucks." This mixed sentiment illustrates his recognition of both personal damage and the positive exposure it brings.
Committed despite stress and toxicity
Sandoval shows a strong sense of commitment to the reality series. Despite expressing the stress and toxicity it brings to his daily life, including his initial hesitations about reality TV, he continues to film and participate fully. He even chose to be a part of "Special Forces" as a means of personal rehabilitation through hardship. Sandoval's decision not to quit the show, along with his continued efforts to maintain and prepare the set in the off-season, underscore his dedication. His presence in the reality TV environment, despite its toll, signifies a determination to persevere in this career path.
Hopes for rehabilitation and future opportunities
Looking to the future, Sandoval reveals a willingness to rehabilitate his image and hopes for new opportunities. H ...
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Sandoval's Conflicted Feelings About the Show
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Counterarguments
- Sandoval's sense of honor in being part of the show could be seen as overshadowing the personal toll it takes, and one might argue that no amount of positive exposure is worth significant personal distress.
- The commitment to a stressful and toxic environment might not always be commendable; it could be argued that prioritizing mental health and personal well-being over a television show is more important.
- While Sandoval is aiming for rehabilitation and new opportunities, it could be argued that diversifying his career away from reality TV might offer more stabl ...
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