Bravo's iconic series, Vanderpump Rules, produced some of the most infamous and memorable moments of this generation. From the shaggy apartments to the dreadful Las Vegas trips, this show gave us a glimpse into the life of a SUR-ver trying to make it big in Hollywood. I cherished watching each and every cast member living out their dreams, whether that be opening a sandwich shop, becoming a professional DJ, or hosting their favorite competition show. However, this show also highlighted some of the most toxic relationships, friendships, and scheming I have ever seen throughout reality television, and unfortunately, Kristen Doute suffered a lot.
Although Kristen had her fair share of moments, she was mistreated throughout her time on Vanderpump Rules. She had even received the nickname "Crazy Kristen," which was unfair considering she spiraled due to one of the most toxic relationships I have ever seen: her and Tom Sandoval. Even though her behavior made for amazingly entertaining television, it was unfortunate to watch her constantly get belittled and blamed. Now, Kristen is thriving, pregnant, and engaged, all while filming The Valley, and I'm happy to see that.
Kristen Never Deserved Mistreatment
Yes, Kristen plotted, schemed, planted seeds, and had calculated motives during the early seasons, but so did everyone else. Kristen cheated on Tom with Jax Taylor, Tom cheated on Kristen with Ariana Madix, Jax cheated on Stassi Schroeder with Kristen and multiple other women, and Tom Schwartz cheated on Katie Maloney. There has always been a lot of cheating going on - yet only Kristen felt the wrath. I remember watching these scandals go down and all I could do was feel for Kristen. She was gaslit into thinking she was the issue and got shunned from the group. Meanwhile, Jax cheated in every relationship but remained friends with everyone. Ariana was praised for practically stealing Tom, and Tom got off scot-free for cheating and lying. I love Stassi and if I had to choose a favorite cast member it would be her, but it never made sense to me that she got physical with Kristen, yet allowed Jax to remain in her life. The way Kristen acted was no different from any other cast member at one point or another - but she was the only one to remain hated and talked about.
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Once Kristen and Tom called it quits, and they had both moved on, Kristen found herself in another relationship with Brian Carter. I would say their relationship seemed great in the beginning but became rocky as the seasons went on. When Kristen and Carter were in a dark period, all she wanted to do was receive advice from her best friends, Katie and Stassi. Instead of helping, as friends should, they did not want to hear it. Like I said, I love Stassi, but she and Katie were horrible friends at that moment. I think Kristen was a great friend, especially when Katie ranted about her husband's infidelity and everything she did for Brittany Cartwright when Jax cheated, but she never received the same energy that she gave.
Look Who Got the Last Laugh
I am not only happy to see Kristen thriving, but I am proud. While her former cast-mates are dealing with being fired from their show, their businesses closing, and worrying about other shows to hop on, Kristen has a secure spot on The Valley. She is engaged to her cast-mate, Luke Broderick, and they are expecting their first child together. Kristen is booked and busy - unlike some others,she does not have to worry about securing a spot somewhere else. We have watched her go from rock bottom to blossoming into a soon-to-be mother, and I love that.
Yes, Kristen made poor choices, but so did every other former member of this show. I think she was majorly mistreated compared to everyone else, and it was completely unfair. She made mistakes, but it is crazy to me that Tom, Jax, and Schwartz - serial cheaters - were always treated better. However, despite everything, Kristen is now the one thriving. Vanderpump Rules is available to stream on Peacock in the US.
Best known as one of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Lisa Vanderpump opens the salacious kitchen doors of her exclusive Hollywood restaurant and lounge, SUR.
Release Date January 7, 2013
Cast Lisa Vanderpump , Katie Maloney , Scheana Shay , Tom Sandoval
Watch on Peacock