FridayOL

Tom Sandoval, the former Vanderpump Rules star who faced intense public scrutiny following his affair with Raquel Leviss, recently sat down with Caitlin Hornik to discuss his surprising appearance on America's Got Talent. The reality TV personality, once widely labelled as the 'most hated man in America,' reveals he initially felt apprehensive about stepping back into the spotlight as a singer, fearing a barrage of online criticism and mockery.

“Honestly, going on America’s Got Talent felt like I was setting myself up to get trolled,” Sandoval admitted. “I knew there was going to be a reaction, but I wasn't sure how big it would be. The whole thing felt like bait, like people were just waiting for me to fail.” The 'Scandoval' – the term coined to describe Sandoval's affair with his castmate Raquel Leviss while in a long-term relationship with Ariana Madix – sparked a massive online backlash, with Sandoval becoming a target of widespread condemnation.

Sandoval’s decision to audition for AGT, showcasing his musical talents, was met with a mix of surprise and skepticism. Many questioned his motivations, wondering if it was a strategic move to rehabilitate his image or simply a desperate attempt to stay relevant. However, Sandoval insists his desire to perform music, a passion he’s held for years, was the primary driver. “Music has always been my escape, my happy place,” he explained. “I needed to do something for myself, something that made me feel good, regardless of what anyone else thought.”

He acknowledged the challenges of performing in front of a live audience, knowing that many viewers would be approaching his performance with preconceived notions and potentially hostile intentions. “You’re putting yourself out there, vulnerable, and you know people are already judging you before you even sing a note,” he said. “But I also felt like I needed to prove something – not to anyone else, but to myself. I wanted to show that I could still do what I love, despite everything that’s happened.”

The interview delved into Sandoval’s experience on the show, his musical aspirations, and his reflections on the tumultuous events that led to his current situation. He discussed the support he received from unexpected corners and the ongoing process of rebuilding his life and career. While the shadow of 'Scandoval' continues to linger, Sandoval’s appearance on America’s Got Talent represents a bold step towards reclaiming his narrative and pursuing his passion for music.

Whether the public will ultimately embrace his return remains to be seen, but Sandoval's willingness to confront his past and pursue his dreams is a testament to his resilience and determination. He’s hoping his performance on AGT will allow audiences to see beyond the headlines and appreciate him as a musician first and foremost.