Raquel Leviss (Rachel) Embraces New Chapter Post-VPR Exit: Bikini Photos, Mental Health Focus & Bethenny Frankel Interview Insights
In the wake of monumental news regarding her departure from Bravo’s hit reality series, Vanderpump Rules, Raquel Leviss – who has reportedly reverted to her birth name, Rachel – was recently photographed exuding an air of tranquility and self-possession. The reality television personality, widely recognized for her role in the infamous “Scandoval,” was captured lounging poolside in Arizona, radiating unapologetic confidence while sporting a vibrant leafy-print bikini. These striking images emerged just after reports confirmed her decision not to return for Vanderpump Rules season 11, signaling a significant shift in her life trajectory.
The photos, which quickly circulated online (as seen via Page Six), depict the 28-year-old former beauty queen embracing a moment of peace. Dressed in a stylish palm leaf print bikini, predominantly in shades of green, Rachel appeared relaxed and at ease. She complemented her poolside attire with a classic pair of round-lensed sunglasses, her short brunette locks flowing freely as she navigated the pool area and reclined on an outdoor chaise lounge. Further snapshots from the series showed her cooling off by wading into the water, seemingly unfazed by the August heat or the intense public scrutiny that has surrounded her for months. This serene display stands in stark contrast to the tumultuous period she has recently endured, suggesting a deliberate move towards reclaiming her narrative and focusing on personal well-being.
These captivating images arrived hot on the heels of the bombshell announcement that Rachel would not be rejoining the cast of Vanderpump Rules. Her exit follows the widely publicized affair with co-star Tom Sandoval, an event that not only led to the dissolution of Sandoval’s long-term relationship with Ariana Madix but also sent shockwaves throughout the entire cast and devoted fanbase of the show. The scandal, dubbed “Scandoval” by the media and viewers alike, became a cultural phenomenon, dominating headlines and sparking countless discussions across social media platforms. For Rachel, the aftermath involved an unprecedented level of public judgment and personal upheaval, making her decision to step away from the reality TV spotlight a significant and understandable one.
An insider confirmed the news to Entertainment Tonight on August 17, stating, “Rachel will not be returning for season 11 of Vanderpump Rules.” The insider notably used Rachel’s birth name, a detail that has garnered attention as she reportedly chose to revert to it after completing a two-month stay at a mental health treatment facility. This reclaiming of her birth name, from Raquel to Rachel, symbolizes for many a conscious effort to shed the persona associated with the scandal and embark on a path of self-discovery and healing, separate from the constructed reality of television.
The source further elaborated on the factors influencing her decision, emphasizing her commitment to mental health. “There was a possibility up until recently she’d be returning for the new season, but ultimately decided against it,” the insider revealed. “Rachel is focused on her mental health journey and knew going back to the show would open her up to trauma she’s been working on healing. Rachel is looking forward to what the future holds for her.” This statement highlights the profound impact the events of the past year have had on Rachel, underscoring the importance of prioritizing personal well-being over professional obligations, especially in the high-pressure environment of reality television. The continuous rehashing of past events, the intense interpersonal conflicts, and the relentless public scrutiny inherent in reality TV filming would undoubtedly pose significant challenges to anyone undergoing a mental health recovery. Her choice reflects a mature and self-aware understanding of her limits and needs.
Adding another layer to her evolving narrative, the poolside photographs also coincided with the release of Rachel’s candid podcast interview with entrepreneur and former Real Housewives of New York City star, Bethenny Frankel, on Frankel’s “Just B with Bethenny Frankel” podcast. This interview provided Rachel with a platform to speak her truth outside the carefully edited confines of reality television, allowing her to address key aspects of her experience and clarify her perspective on the events that unfolded. During the discussion, Rachel made a notable claim regarding her relationship with Ariana Madix, asserting that despite appearances, they “were not best friends” prior to the cheating scandal erupting.
“We were acquaintances who became friends through the show,” Rachel clarified during the interview. “She’s always been somebody who’s been very sweet to me. She would stand up for me and encourage me to pursue whatever I was pursuing and that was all great. But we never had like a deep conversation that I would have with a best friend.” This distinction, while seemingly subtle, is crucial for Rachel in articulating her side of the story. It aims to reframe the perceived betrayal from one against a close confidante to one within a less intimate, albeit still significant, friendship formed through shared professional experiences. The nuances of this statement have sparked further debate among fans and critics, with some understanding her need to redefine the relationship, while others view it as an attempt to mitigate the severity of her actions. Bethenny Frankel, known for her no-nonsense approach and experience navigating reality TV controversies, provided a sympathetic yet probing forum for Rachel to share these insights, granting her an opportunity to control her narrative in a way that had been largely unavailable to her since the scandal broke.
The Lingering Echoes of Scandoval and the Path Forward
The “Scandoval” not only shook the foundations of Vanderpump Rules but also ignited a broader conversation about loyalty, betrayal, and mental health within the reality television landscape. Prior to the affair, Rachel Leviss, then known as Raquel, was often portrayed as a somewhat naive and sweet-natured former beauty queen who had navigated a tumultuous relationship with James Kennedy. Her evolution on the show, from a supportive girlfriend to a cast member finding her own voice, was a central storyline. The revelation of her secret affair with Tom Sandoval, a long-standing partner of Ariana Madix, shattered this image and thrust her into an unprecedented level of public scrutiny and vitriol. This intense backlash, fueled by social media and traditional media alike, undoubtedly contributed to her decision to seek mental health treatment and eventually step away from the show.
Her time in the mental health facility and the subsequent decision to use her birth name, Rachel, represent a profound personal transformation. In an era where mental wellness is increasingly recognized as paramount, Rachel’s public journey offers a compelling example of an individual prioritizing their inner peace over the demands of fame and public expectation. The courage required to step away from a lucrative and high-profile reality TV role, especially when under such intense public scrutiny, cannot be overstated. It speaks volumes about her commitment to healing and constructing a future unburdened by past mistakes and public perception.
The interview with Bethenny Frankel served as a pivotal moment for Rachel to articulate her perspective without the filters of Bravo’s editing suite. Bethenny, having herself been at the epicenter of reality TV drama and public scrutiny, brought a unique empathy and understanding to the conversation. Her podcast provided a safe space for Rachel to unpack her experiences, address the backlash, and clarify her personal relationships. By drawing a distinction between an “acquaintance” and a “best friend” concerning Ariana, Rachel attempted to explain the dynamics of her relationship with Madix, perhaps aiming to contextualize her actions and mitigate the perception of a profound betrayal against a lifelong friend. This interview marked her first extensive public statement since the scandal, offering fans and critics a rare, unfiltered glimpse into her mindset.
Looking ahead, Rachel Leviss’s future remains a subject of considerable speculation. While her departure from Vanderpump Rules closes a significant chapter, it simultaneously opens doors to new possibilities. She has expressed a desire to focus on her mental health and explore avenues that align with her personal growth. Whether this involves a return to the public eye in a different capacity, perhaps advocating for mental health awareness, or retreating entirely from the spotlight, her journey will undoubtedly continue to captivate those who have followed her story. Her poolside photos, taken just after her VPR exit news, capture a woman choosing peace and self-care, signaling an unapologetic embrace of a new beginning. Rachel’s story is a powerful reminder of the human element behind the reality TV spectacle, emphasizing resilience, self-discovery, and the complex journey of healing in the public eye.