Bravo has officially announced that “Vanderpump Rules,” its popular reality series, will return for a 12th season, featuring an entirely new cast. This decision comes in the wake of “Scandoval,” a scandal that dramatically affected the show’s original lineup and captivated audiences for the last two seasons with its unpredictable themes and shocking twists.
The new season will once again include Lisa Vanderpump, the executive producer of the series and owner of the Los Angeles restaurant SUR, where the show is set. According to the announcement, the new cast will be a “close-knit” group of SUR employees, mirroring the complex relationships of the initial cast members. Viewers can expect plenty of drama, entangled relationships, and a fresh set of dynamics as the production gears up to begin filming next year. Specific details regarding the premiere date and cast names are yet to be revealed.
Additionally, original cast members such as Lala Kent, Scheana Shay, Brock Davies, and Tom Schwartz will make appearances in the upcoming spinoff titled “The Valley.” There are possibilities for other cast members like Ariana Madix, Tom Sandoval, James Kennedy, and Katie Maloney to be involved in future scenes for both “Vanderpump Rules” and its larger universe.
To celebrate the original seasons, a retrospective special will also be released, highlighting the unforgettable moments from the last eleven years of the show, filled with heartbreaks, friendships, and numerous scandals.
Alex Baskin, the executive producer, expressed his enthusiasm for continuing the show’s legacy with a new vibrant cast, saying, “What a thrill it is to build on the legacy of this series by doing it all over again.” Lisa Vanderpump added reflections on the past 12 years, emphasizing the emotional rollercoaster that the series has been and her excitement for introducing a new generation of cast members.
“Vanderpump Rules” has become one of Bravo’s flagship shows, with impressive viewership numbers—3.2 million for the season 11 premiere and 4.6 million for the season 10 reunion. However, the previous season elicited mixed reactions from fans, especially after the tensions related to Scandoval, which saw Tom Sandoval’s betrayal impacting both viewers and cast dynamics profoundly.
Baskin acknowledged earlier that the last season was particularly challenging to produce due to a divided cast, but he remains optimistic about the show’s future. While the announcement of a new cast suggests a fresh start, the involvement of previous members could serve to maintain a connection with the show’s fanbase.
In light of these changes, the Bravo network has an opportunity to embark on a new chapter that combines fresh talent with the legacy of the series. This could lead to the reinvention of “Vanderpump Rules,” potentially rejuvenating its fanbase and igniting interest from both new viewers and longtime fans.
Overall, the announcement heralds a potential for revitalization, showing that change can lead to exciting developments in reality television while still honoring the foundational moments that contributed to the show’s success. The future looks promising as “Vanderpump Rules” prepares to navigate new waters in the ever-evolving landscape of reality TV.