
Call Her Daddy
"It felt like a ping pong match in between those two extremes [lows and bright spots]." — Ariana Madix
"The duplicitousness. It's like the, it's the backstabbingness. It's like less about like an affair." — Ariana Madix
"I feel like my entire reality was gone. Like I just did not know like what was up and what was up at that point." — Ariana Madix
Ariana Madix joins Alex Cooper on "Call Her Daddy" to share her experience discovering her nine-year partner Tom Sandoval's extensive affair with her close friend and fellow cast member, Raquel. Madix recounts the pivotal moment she found evidence on Sandoval's phone, describing the shock, disbelief, and overwhelming mix of emotions. She details the immediate confrontation and the surreal experience of driving home with Sandoval while on the phone with Raquel and another friend, Shina. The conversation delves into the years leading up to the affair, including their relationship dynamic, Madix's own insecurities, and the impact of past relationship traumas. Madix reflects on the couples therapy they attended, questioning Sandoval's intentions and his narrative of wanting to break up.
The episode meticulously unpacks the emotional and psychological toll of the betrayal. Madix discusses how Sandoval's attempts to gaslight her and shift blame distorted her reality, highlighting the difficulty of trusting one's own judgment when faced with such profound dishonesty. She contrasts Sandoval's behavior with her own during previous difficult times, like the loss of her father and dog, where she felt he was her "rock," making his actions during her recent grief even more painful. The conversation also touches on the public nature of the scandal, the rumors surrounding their relationship, and the importance of her support system of friends in navigating the aftermath.
Looking towards the future, Madix expresses a desire for independence, both financially and personally. She discusses her upcoming sandwich shop venture with Katie Maloney and her goal of homeownership. She also shares insights into her new relationship, emphasizing the importance of honesty and clear boundaries. Madix reflects on her own growth and resilience, advocating for self-compassion and the support of friends during difficult times, while firmly stating her commitment to moving forward and embracing new happiness.