According to court documents obtained by TMZ on August 7, 2026, “Vanderpump Rules” alum Ariana Madix is considering taking her ongoing revenge porn legal battle with Rachel Leviss to the California Supreme Court after an appellate court ruled in favor of Leviss. The potential state supreme court filing represents a significant escalation in the high-profile reality television dispute.
Appellate Court Ruling Triggers Supreme Court Consideration
The legal conflict intensified when an appellate court sided with Rachel Leviss, denying a previous request by Ariana Madix to dismiss the claims, according to court documents cited by TMZ. Leviss initially sued both Madix and Tom Sandoval for revenge porn, alleging that Sandoval secretly filmed X-rated FaceTime conversations while he and Madix were still in a relationship. Leviss claimed in court filings that Madix later discovered the explicit videos on Sandoval’s phone and showed them to other individuals.
Following the appellate court’s decision, Madix requested a hearing date originally scheduled for September 2026 to be postponed. TMZ reported that Madix needs this time to decide whether to officially file papers with the state’s highest court, a move that must occur within a strict 40-day window.
Understanding the Legal Precedents and Stakes
According to reports from TMZ, the core of the legal dispute hinges on the discovery of the explicit recordings on Sandoval’s mobile device and their subsequent dissemination among cast members and third parties.
While lower courts and appellate judges have kept the litigation alive by denying dismissal requests, a petition to the California Supreme Court would require justices to decide whether to review the lower rulings. Such a petition carries strict procedural deadlines, forcing Madix and her legal representation to act quickly within the 40-day window.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Ariana Madix considering the California Supreme Court?
According to TMZ, Madix is weighing an appeal to the state’s highest court after an appellate court ruled against her and declined to dismiss revenge porn claims brought forward by Rachel Leviss.
What did Rachel Leviss claim in her lawsuit?
Court documents obtained by TMZ state that Leviss sued Ariana Madix and Tom Sandoval, alleging that Sandoval secretly recorded X-rated FaceTime conversations and that Madix found the footage on his phone and showed it to others.
What is the timeline for the next legal steps?
Madix requested the postponement of a September 2026 hearing while deciding whether to file an appeal with the California Supreme Court, an action that must take place within a 40-day timeframe.
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