‘Vanderpump Rules’ Reboot Cast Shrugs Off Backlash and Low Ratings

“Vanderpump Rules” is officially back — but not without noise. Bravo’s longtime reality hit returned for season 12 with a completely new cast of SURvers under the watchful eye of Lisa Vanderpump, and fans have had opinions. Lots of them. As ratings chatter and reboot skepticism swirl online, the new cast is making it clear they’re aware of the backlash — and largely unbothered by it.

New ‘Vanderpump Rules’ Cast Addresses Backlash and Old Cast Support

Several of the season 12 stars attended the Vanderpump Dog Foundation Gala in December 2025, where they spoke to US Weekly about the reaction to the reboot. Audrey Lingle admitted she’s seen the negativity but says it hasn’t defined her experience.

“Honestly, the amount of negativity has just been overshadowed by all of the love,” Audrey said. “It’s been so surprisingly overwhelming to feel that.”

She added that criticism hasn’t stood a chance against fan support.

“Anything that anyone has said that is negative has just been put in the ground tenfold by the kindness that people have given us.”

Venus Binkley echoed that sentiment, “I know that there’s a lot of hate on the internet, but it just feels really nice to be surrounded by people who do love us,” Venus said, adding that the new cast has stayed united despite the criticism.

Marcus Johnson addressed the ongoing debate about whether the reboot should have had a different name altogether. “There’s a lot of noise,”

Marcus said. “Positive and negative — and it’s so easy to get wrapped up in the BS.” He added that he’s choosing to focus on fans who actually want to give the new cast a chance.

Kim Suarez also acknowledged the chatter but said the cast is leaning into gratitude. “There is a lot of noise,” Kim said. “We’re really trying to enjoy the support and the excitement.”

Natalie Maguire revealed that some familiar faces from the original “Vanderpump Rules” cast have reached out. “Tom Schwartz was just in SUR this week at our watch party,” Natalie said. “He’s supportive. We just met Stassi inside.”

Audrey described Stassi Schroeder as “so supportive, so nice.”

Marcus also told The Daily Mail that Tom Schwartz has been offering guidance. “Just go with the flow. Be yourself. Don’t let all the noise get you down,” Marcus recalled. Kim called Tom “so kind and generous,” while Venus added, “He’s amazing.”

According to Audrey, not everyone from the old cast has reached out — but the ones who have made an impact. Natalie added that she was already friendly with Scheana Shay and confirmed that Kristen Doute has also been in touch.

“Vanderpump Rules” season 12 airs Tuesday nights on Bravo and streams on Peacock.

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About Amanda

Amanda is a co-founder of Bravo and Cocktails and co-hosts the Cocktails and Gossip podcast with B, the Prosecco Princess. With a long career in marketing and advertising — and an even longer one as a reality TV fan — Amanda has been hooked since the genre began with The Real World. She grew up devouring blogs like The Awful Truth on E! and Perez Hilton, and treating herself to People and Us Weekly at the checkout line. These days, you can find her cheering on her kids from the sidelines, traveling, checking out new restaurants, and of course, watching TV with her husband. Amanda is also the person behind the scenes at Cocktail Party — if you have questions about the site or your membership, feel free to send her a note at amanda@bravoandcocktails.com.

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