Ever since Scandoval broke, Tom Sandoval’s actions have been placed under the highest scrutiny. That said, no one needs to scrutinize too hard to understand why his recent tiger debacle was so controversial.
On his recent trip to Thailand, the Vanderpump Rules star took photos and videos with the headlining animals at Tiger World Thailand. Of course, as many know, animals in captivity used for photo ops are treated almost as poorly as it gets.
Lala Kent and PETA blasted Tom for his ignorance (assuming he was merely ignorant). Given the risk this situation posed to Tom’s reputation, especially ahead of VPR Season 11, it was only a matter of time before he responded.
Tom admits his ignorance and lack of “research”
On the latest episode of Tom’s podcast, Tom said, “I guess we should address the tiger in the room.” He was joined by Tom Schwartz who also sought to provide some context on the trip to Thailand.
Tom began by saying, “I was too distracted by it being like a ‘face your fear’ kind of moment and obviously this wasn’t something we had planned. We were out at the boat market, and one of our tour guides showed us a picture of him with a tiger, and I was like, ‘Whoa, that’s so cool!’ And basically, it was across the street from the boats.”
Schwartz added, “In Tom’s defense, your first question was, ‘Is this ethical?’ Because I think we were all aware that it can be a dubious — at best — industry.”
Schwartz further claimed that the “sanctuary” workers said they donated funds to conservation efforts. They said none of the animals were sedated or given corporal punishment.
Tom continued, “I’ve not really done a lot of research. If we would’ve rolled up to a place of some guy’s trailer, and he’s got like lions caged up…”
As for Lala and PETA’s responses, Schwartz said, “I like that they were constructive in their criticism of you.”
Vanderpump Rules returns to Bravo on Tuesday, January 30 at 8/7c.
TELL US – WHAT DO YOU THINK OF TOM’S RESPONSE AND SCHWARTZ’S ADDED CONTEXT?
