Summary
Tom Sandoval, known for Vanderpump Rules and the 2023 “Scandoval” cheating scandal, appeared on America’s Got Talent (airing June 24, 2025) with his band Tom Sandoval & the Most Extras. Performing a high-energy cover of A‑ha’s “Take on Me,” Sandoval stunned the judges and audience with unexpected vocal range and showmanship. He opened the act by joking about his past, aiming to shift public perception. His performance earned applause, a possible standing ovation, and mixed but intrigued reactions from fans. The audition marks a key moment in his ongoing bid for image rehabilitation.
Tom Sandoval, best known for his polarizing role on Vanderpump Rules, is attempting a full-scale image reboot—on national television. On the June 24, 2025 episode of America’s Got Talent (AGT), Sandoval took the stage with his band, Tom Sandoval & the Most Extras, performing a high-octane cover of A‑ha’s iconic ’80s hit, “Take on Me.” It was a performance packed with glitter, vocal ambition, and a heavy dose of self-awareness.
For a man once dubbed the “most hated reality star in America,” this televised musical audition may mark the start of a new chapter—one that blends redemption, reinvention, and raw entertainment value.
A Bold Song Choice and Glittering Presentation
Dressed in a sparkling green blazer, Sandoval hit the stage with charisma, flanked by a full band and backup vocalists. The choice of song—“Take on Me”—was both nostalgic and vocally ambitious. Sandoval reached for the song’s signature high notes, aiming to showcase not just vocal range but emotional intensity.
His band, The Most Extras, delivered tight instrumentation and energetic support, helping shift the vibe from skepticism to celebration. The performance brought the crowd to their feet and impressed even the most discerning AGT judges.
Addressing “Scandoval” Head-On
Before the performance began, Sandoval leaned into the controversy that has followed him for over a year. He walked onto the stage and introduced himself with a wry smile, saying:
“I used to be the most hated man in America… So I started a band.”
The line earned laughs and applause. It was a clear nod to the 2023 cheating scandal, infamously dubbed “Scandoval,” in which he was involved in a months-long affair with Rachel Leviss—while still in a long-term relationship with Ariana Madix. The fallout was swift, explosive, and well-documented across entertainment media.
Rather than dodge the issue, Sandoval used it as a launching pad for his audition—turning a tabloid nightmare into a personal and public pivot.
Judges’ Reactions: From Doubt to Applause
Initially, the AGT judging panel, featuring Simon Cowell, Sofía Vergara, and Mel B, seemed uncertain. Cowell in particular raised an eyebrow, and viewers could sense a mix of curiosity and judgment. But as the performance unfolded, the tide turned.
By the end of the song, the crowd was clapping in rhythm, and the judges—though clearly surprised—gave respectful nods. The vibe shifted from “Why is he here?” to “He’s actually pulling this off.”
While feedback will officially air on June 24, sources at the taping report that Sandoval received a standing ovation, not just from fans, but from some of the judges as well.
Who Are “Tom Sandoval & The Most Extras”?
Though most fans know Sandoval from reality TV, his passion for music is not new. Tom Sandoval & The Most Extras is a touring cover band known for its theatrical style and nostalgic song choices. Their live performances include everything from pop-punk to ‘80s anthems—often delivered with high energy and flair.
Their goal? To bring the “extra” back to performance.
Sandoval plays the role of frontman with full commitment, mixing dramatic vocals, choreography, and costuming. While critics have questioned his vocal chops, the AGT performance may signal a turning point in both execution and audience reception.
The “Scandoval” Scandal: A Brief Recap
In March 2023, Bravo fans and gossip columns exploded when it was revealed that Sandoval had been having a secret affair with his Vanderpump Rules co-star Rachel Leviss. The betrayal ended his nine-year relationship with Ariana Madix, and the scandal—nicknamed “Scandoval”—dominated headlines for months.
Sandoval issued multiple public apologies, faced intense online backlash, and lost brand partnerships. However, instead of disappearing from the spotlight, he leaned into the discomfort and began slowly rebuilding his image through music and live performance.
Public Reaction: Mixed but Evolving
The internet’s response to Sandoval’s AGT appearance has been a mix of:
- Skepticism: Many critics doubted his motives and questioned whether he deserved a second chance.
- Praise: Others admired his courage to perform live and confront his past.
- Surprise: Some admitted the performance exceeded expectations vocally and visually.
Reddit threads, TikTok clips, and Twitter reactions were filled with commentary ranging from “He’s actually not bad” to “Still cringe, but at least he’s trying.” And that may be the most honest takeaway—an attempt at growth, not perfection.
Why This AGT Audition Matters
This wasn’t just another celebrity performance—it was a strategic move. By appearing on America’s Got Talent, Sandoval is repositioning himself as a performer rather than a reality TV villain. He’s placing himself in front of a broader, more forgiving audience, many of whom are unaware of the Bravo backstory.
It’s a smart play. If he impresses the judges and the audience, he could potentially transition from scandal-driven tabloid figure to national touring artist—a shift few thought possible a year ago.
What’s Next for Tom Sandoval?
- Continued tour dates with The Most Extras through late 2025
- A possible single or original album release (hinted at in recent interviews)
- Ongoing appearances on reality TV and perhaps a redemption arc via other platforms
It’s unclear how far he’ll go on America’s Got Talent, but one thing is certain: Tom Sandoval is betting on reinvention, and the AGT stage is his proving ground.
Final Thoughts
Tom Sandoval’s AGT audition wasn’t just entertainment—it was an attempt at personal redemption, broadcast in front of millions. By pairing self-aware humor with a visually striking performance, he did what few reality stars manage to do: reclaim the narrative.
Will the public fully forgive “Scandoval”? Probably not overnight. But for now, he’s taken a bold step away from scandal—and back into the spotlight.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What did Tom Sandoval perform on America’s Got Talent?
A: He performed a live cover of A‑ha’s classic hit “Take on Me” with his band, Tom Sandoval & the Most Extras.
Q2: When did the AGT episode air?
A: The episode aired on June 24, 2025.
Q3: Did Tom Sandoval address the “Scandoval” scandal?
A: Yes, he humorously referenced it by saying, “I used to be the most hated man in America,” before his performance.
Q4: How did the AGT judges react?
A: Initially skeptical, the judges and audience reportedly gave a standing ovation by the end of the act.
Q5: Is Tom Sandoval still dating Rachel Leviss?
A: No. As of mid-2025, Sandoval is not romantically linked to Leviss. The affair ended in 2023.
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