Who is Tom Sandoval? All about the controversial 'Vanderpump Rules' star that *everyone* is talking about

Who is Tom Sandoval? Well, at the time of publication, he might be one of the most condemned reality TV stars in the biz. 

For those who need the Vanderpump Rules drama explained, we'll give you a quick update: longtime partners Tom Sandoval and Ariana Madix, the Bravo show's beloved couple, ended a nearly 10-year-long relationship when he was busted for an alleged affair with their Pump Rules co-star, Raquel Leviss, who had previously been engaged to James Kennedy. 

Everyone's dying to know more about when was season 10 of Vanderpump Rules season 10 filmed in order to piece this shocking affair together. Plus, fans are curious how things will play out on what's sure to be a messy Pump Rules reunion.

But before we jump ahead, let's meet one of the drama's major players (literally and figuratively), Tom Sandoval. 

Who is Tom Sandoval? Get to know the scandalous star

It might be hard to think back to a time when Tom Sandoval wasn't attached to Vanderpump Rules—or Ariana Madix. 

The SUR bartender began his career at Lisa Vanderpump's sexy Los Angeles restaurant and, at the start of his position, was attached to Kristen Doute, a former cast member of the show and SUR. Initially, his troubled relationship with Kristen caused him to pursue a deeper connection with Ariana while still attached to Kristen, and they've been together ever since. Though their coupling up in 2014 initially caused drama—no surprise—Kristen managed to find a way to create a strong friendship with Ariana, despite the two being sworn enemies at one point. 

It seemed like things were on fairly solid ground for Ariana and Tom, as well as Tom's businesses, as he opened two bars of his own alongside cast member and best friend Tom Schwartz: TomTom and Schwartz and Sandy's.

The Toms have become close, practically inseparable, so much so that fans have forgotten about Jax Taylor, who used to be a bartender on the show as well. Sandoval and Taylor always fought to be "the number one guy" in the group and had an explosive falling out on camera, which played out during Jax's wedding to Brittany Taylor. Most recently, Tom and cast member Lala Kent have been at odds; he claimed she was a bully, while she said she's "too real" for Tom to keep up with.

What did Tom Sandoval do before 'Vanderpump Rules'?

Tom Sandoval tried to make it in the music and TV businesses before dipping into reality TV and bartending. He starred in a variety of small-scale productions like The Pit and the Pendulum (2009) and Behind Your Eyes (2011).

As of late, he had been trying to get back into music with his new band, Tom Sandoval and the Most Extras. Allegedly, Ariana found out about her partner's infidelity while attending one of his concerts.

Where is Tom Sandoval from?

Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Tom is one of two boys in his family. He was born on July 7, 1983, and is of Mexican-American descent.

Tom Sandoval Instagram apology

On Sunday, March 5, Tom took to Instagram to apologize for his actions—without mentioning Ariana—and noted he'd be taking a brief hiatus from work so as not to interfere with his partners and employees. 

A forthcoming Vanderpump Rules reunion is on its way in the coming weeks, and while we don't know exactly what will play out, it will definitely be dramatic. Andy Cohen confirmed to People: "You will see this play out in a sense this season of Vanderpump Rules, before the reunion."

It seems "Scandoval" is far from over, and we'll be sure to keep you informed of how the saga unravels!

The latest episode of Vanderpump Rules will air on Wednesday, March 8 on Bravo at 9pm ET, and will be available the next day on Peacock.