Bravo has officially announced a fresh start for its beloved reality series Vanderpump Rules, revealing that season 12 will feature an entirely new cast. This decision comes on the heels of the show’s hiatus following the dramatic events of “Scandoval,” a scandal that significantly impacted the original cast and generated both high ratings and mixed feedback from audiences.
The upcoming season will again include Lisa Vanderpump, who is both the executive producer and the owner of SUR, the iconic restaurant at the heart of the show. The series will introduce a new group of employees, described as a “close-knit” crew who will undoubtedly find themselves in their own complicated relationships and intense drama, echoing the dynamics of the original cast. Production for season 12 is slated to begin next year, with details regarding the premiere date and cast members to be announced in the future.
While the new season marks a significant departure from the original format, familiar faces from the previous cast—such as Lala Kent, Scheana Shay, Brock Davies, and Tom Schwartz—are expected to make appearances in a spinoff titled The Valley. This spinoff could keep connections alive between the old and new cast members, hinting at a possibility of further collaboration within the wider Bravo universe.
In addition to the new season, a retrospective special will celebrate the highlights from the previous 11 seasons of Vanderpump Rules, emphasizing pivotal moments of friendship, heartbreak, and scandal. Executive Producer Alex Baskin expressed enthusiasm for the new direction, stating the importance of honoring the legacy of the original cast while introducing a fresh narrative to captivate audiences.
Lisa Vanderpump also shared her reflections on the past 12 years of filming, offering gratitude to those who participated in the show and expressing excitement for the next generation. Vanderpump Rules has achieved significant popularity, boasting impressive viewership numbers in previous seasons, making it one of Bravo’s flagship shows.
Despite previous controversies and challenges, including the divisive nature of season 11 following the “Scandoval,” producers remain optimistic about the show’s future. Baskin indicated that there is still potential for a revitalized cast to resonate with viewers and that the show can evolve with new storylines and characters.
In a promising turn of events, former cast members are also pursuing new opportunities outside of their previous roles, with some launching successful business ventures, such as the sandwich shop opened by Madix and Maloney. This new chapter for Vanderpump Rules not only signals a fresh beginning for the franchise but also indicates the resilience and adaptability of its stars.
Overall, Vanderpump Rules is poised for a comeback that could reignite the excitement of fans, drawing in both loyal followers of the series and new viewers alike. As the production moves forward, there’s a hopeful anticipation for what drama and relationships the next season will bring, proving once again that in the world of reality television, there’s always room for reinvention and growth.