Tom Sandoval, the controversial reality TV star from Vanderpump Rules, is stealing the spotlight once again—this time on the America’s Got Talent stage. Ahead of the highly anticipated June 24 episode on NBC, a teaser clip of Sandoval and his band, Tom Sandoval & The Most Extras, performing A-ha’s iconic “Take on Me” has sent fans into a frenzy. Posted on AGT’s official Instagram on June 20, the clip showcases Sandoval’s surprising vocal prowess and electrifying stage presence, leaving even his harshest critics stunned.
The caption from AGT read, “The infamous Tom Sandoval steps back into the spotlight on the AGT stage. #AGT | @NBC and Peacock.” In the video, the 42-year-old reality star commands the stage with high-energy dance moves before delivering a vocal performance that culminated in a jaw-dropping high note. For many, it was a moment of redemption for Sandoval, who faced intense backlash following his 2023 cheating scandal involving his longtime girlfriend, Ariana Madix, and her best friend, Rachel Leviss (formerly Raquel).
Fans Can’t Stop Talking About It
The teaser sparked a wave of reactions from Vanderpump Rules fans and AGT viewers alike, with many taking to Instagram to share their shock and admiration. One user raved, “Not even gonna be a hater, I am VERY pleasantly surprised! He sounds really great!” Another chimed in, “Gotta admit that he sounds pretty good. And he chose a great song for the crowd.” The praise continued with comments like, “Wow that was so good🔥🔥🔥,” and one fan reluctantly admitted, “I don’t want to like this…. But it’s really good.”
Some fans even called for a reevaluation of Sandoval’s public persona. “Tom’s not a bad guy, he just did a bad thing. Life moves on…,” one supporter wrote, hinting at a desire to move past the drama that made Sandoval a polarizing figure in the Vanderpump Rules universe.
Not Everyone’s Convinced
Despite the wave of positivity, not all fans were ready to forgive and forget. Some Vanderpump Rules diehards remain unimpressed, with one Instagram user dismissing the performance as “a cover band you can find any Friday night at your townie pub.” Others took jabs at Sandoval’s past, with one snarking, “Meanwhile Ariana hosting the biggest show on TV,” referring to Madix’s high-profile gig as the host of Love Island USA. Another skeptic questioned, “Ok but did he actually hit that high note?”
The mixed reactions highlight the divide among fans, with Sandoval’s scandal still casting a long shadow over his attempts to reclaim the public’s favor.
What’s Next for Sandoval?
As anticipation builds for the June 24 episode, all eyes will be on Sandoval and his band as they face the Season 20 judges: Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara, and Mel B. Will Sandoval’s performance win over the judges and cement his comeback, or will his past continue to overshadow his talent? Fans and detractors alike will need to tune in to find out.
For now, Sandoval’s AGT appearance has reignited the conversation around his polarizing persona, proving that whether you love him or hate him, he knows how to keep the spotlight on him. Don’t miss the full performance on America’s Got Talent this Monday on NBC and Peacock!