What’s Tom Sandoval Doing Now? A Look at His Latest Achievements
Tom Sandoval is a name that resonates with fans of reality TV, particularly those who have followed Vanderpump Rules, the Bravo show that catapulted him into the public eye. His involvement in the entertainment industry, his business ventures, and his ability to maintain a consistent presence in the public spotlight make him a fascinating figure. But what exactly has Tom Sandoval been up to recently? Let’s take an in-depth look at his current activities and achievements, and how he continues to evolve both as a TV personality and a businessman.
Tom Sandoval’s Journey from Actor to Reality TV Star
Before Tom Sandoval became a household name through Vanderpump Rules, he had already started making his mark in the entertainment industry. Born on July 7, 1983, in St. Louis, Missouri, Sandoval initially pursued a career in modeling and acting. He appeared in several commercials and small roles in films, most notably in Alien Presence (2009) and 23 Minutes to Sunrise (2012).
However, his career trajectory changed dramatically when he became one of the original cast members of Vanderpump Rules, a reality show centered around the lives of employees working at SUR (Sexy Unique Restaurant), owned by The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Lisa Vanderpump. Sandoval’s charismatic personality, complicated love life, and tight-knit friendships with other cast members quickly made him a fan favorite.
The show allowed him to explore a new avenue of fame and fortune, marking the beginning of a successful reality TV career that would span over a decade. Even as his role in Vanderpump Rules has evolved over time, Sandoval has remained a central figure on the show. But his ambitions extend far beyond reality television.
Tom Sandoval’s Role in Vanderpump Rules Today
Vanderpump Rules has undergone numerous cast changes and dramatic storylines over the years, but Tom Sandoval has stayed on board as one of the key figures. From romantic entanglements to business ventures, Sandoval’s life has been a central plot point in many of the show’s seasons.
The most recent seasons of Vanderpump Rules have shown a more mature and entrepreneurial side of Sandoval. While the show continues to delve into his personal relationships, including his now-former relationship with Ariana Madix, it has also provided a platform for showcasing his business endeavors, such as his co-ownership of the bar TomTom.
Sandoval remains a vital part of the show’s narrative, balancing his role as a reality TV star with the responsibilities that come with running successful businesses. His presence on Vanderpump Rules is not just about stirring drama; it’s also about highlighting his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to his personal and professional growth.
Co-Owner of TomTom: Sandoval’s Bar Success
One of Tom Sandoval’s most notable achievements outside of reality TV has been his success as a bar owner. Along with his Vanderpump Rules co-star Tom Schwartz and Lisa Vanderpump, Sandoval co-owns TomTom, a bar and lounge located in West Hollywood. Opened in 2018, TomTom quickly became a popular destination for fans of the show and those looking for a unique nightlife experience.
TomTom’s design and atmosphere are heavily influenced by Sandoval’s aesthetic vision, blending vintage glamour with modern chic. The bar’s menu, featuring craft cocktails and gourmet bar food, is also a reflection of Sandoval’s passion for the hospitality industry. TomTom’s success has garnered positive reviews, not just for its association with Vanderpump Rules, but also for its quality and appeal to a broad audience.
Running TomTom has been a major milestone for Sandoval, who has often spoken about his desire to expand his business portfolio. The experience of owning and operating a bar has allowed him to develop skills outside of the entertainment world, and his involvement in TomTom’s day-to-day operations is a testament to his hands-on approach.
Expanding His Business Ventures
Tom Sandoval’s entrepreneurial ambitions don’t stop with TomTom. Over the years, he has expressed interest in expanding his presence in the hospitality industry and exploring new business ventures. In 2022, Sandoval took a major step in that direction with the opening of his second bar, Schwartz & Sandy’s, which he co-owns with Tom Schwartz.
Schwartz & Sandy’s is a cocktail lounge located in Franklin Village, Los Angeles, and has been described as a unique and eclectic space. Sandoval has emphasized that the bar’s concept was inspired by his and Schwartz’s personalities, blending their different tastes and aesthetics into one cohesive vision. The opening of Schwartz & Sandy’s has added another feather to Sandoval’s cap as a successful entrepreneur in the highly competitive Los Angeles nightlife scene.
Beyond the bar business, Sandoval has also ventured into the world of fashion and grooming. In 2020, he launched a men’s skincare and grooming line called Stryx, which aims to break the stigma surrounding men’s skincare and offer high-quality products for everyday use. His involvement in this industry shows that Sandoval is not content with staying in one lane—he’s always looking for new ways to diversify his brand and expand his influence.
Tom Sandoval’s Passion for Music
Outside of his reality TV fame and business ventures, Tom Sandoval is also an aspiring musician. Music has been a lifelong passion for him, and he has often expressed his desire to incorporate it into his public persona. In 2021, Sandoval took a significant step towards achieving that goal by forming the band Tom Sandoval & The Most Extras.
The band is a cover band that performs a variety of popular hits from different genres, showcasing Sandoval’s versatility as a performer. While some may have been skeptical about his foray into music, Sandoval has proven that he’s serious about this endeavor. His performances are energetic, and he clearly enjoys being on stage and entertaining his fans in a different capacity.
Music has allowed Sandoval to show a different side of his personality, and his band has gained a following thanks to his dedicated fanbase. Although it may not be his primary career focus, music has become an important creative outlet for Sandoval, adding yet another dimension to his already multifaceted career.
Philanthropic Efforts and Giving Back
While Tom Sandoval is best known for his work in the entertainment and hospitality industries, he’s also dedicated to giving back to the community. Over the years, he has been involved in various charitable initiatives, often using his platform to raise awareness for causes close to his heart.
One notable example is Sandoval’s work with The Trevor Project, an organization that provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ youth. He has participated in fundraising events and used his social media influence to promote the organization’s work. Sandoval’s commitment to philanthropy demonstrates that he’s not just focused on personal success—he’s also invested in making a positive impact on the world around him.
Navigating Personal Life and Public Scrutiny
As a public figure, Tom Sandoval’s personal life has often been the subject of scrutiny. His long-term relationship with Ariana Madix, which was a central storyline on Vanderpump Rules, came to an end in 2023, leading to significant media attention. Sandoval has been open about the challenges of navigating a public breakup while trying to maintain his professional life.
Despite the ups and downs in his personal life, Sandoval has remained focused on his career and business ventures. He has acknowledged that living in the public eye comes with its share of challenges, but he continues to handle these difficulties with grace, using them as opportunities for growth.
What’s Next for Tom Sandoval?
With so many achievements under his belt, it’s clear that Tom Sandoval is not slowing down any time soon. His ability to juggle multiple careers—reality TV star, entrepreneur, musician, and philanthropist—has made him a versatile and dynamic figure in the public eye.
Looking ahead, it’s likely that Sandoval will continue to expand his business ventures, perhaps even opening more bars or restaurants. His passion for music suggests that he may also explore further opportunities in that arena, whether through new performances or original music projects. Whatever the future holds, one thing is certain: Tom Sandoval’s ambition and drive will keep him in the spotlight for years to come.
Conclusion: Tom Sandoval’s Ongoing Evolution
Tom Sandoval’s journey from a young actor in St. Louis to a reality TV star and successful entrepreneur is a testament to his perseverance and versatility. He has managed to turn his reality TV fame into a platform for exploring his passions and building a multifaceted career. Whether through his work on Vanderpump Rules, his thriving businesses, his music, or his philanthropic efforts, Sandoval continues to evolve and find new ways to engage with his audience.
As he moves forward in his career, it’s clear that Sandoval has no intention of being pigeonholed into one role. He’s an entertainer, a businessman, a philanthropist, and a musician, and his ability to balance these different aspects of his life is what sets him apart. Fans can expect to see even more from Tom Sandoval in the coming years, as he continues to push the boundaries of what he can achieve.