The Truth Behind The Hype: 5 Major Revelations About Lala Kent And Tom Schwartz’s ‘Dating’ Rumors

The swirling rumors that *Vanderpump Rules* stars Lala Kent and Tom Schwartz were secretly dating have finally been put to rest, but the drama that fueled the speculation is a perfect encapsulation of their complex, ever-evolving friendship. As of late December 2025, both reality stars have definitively confirmed that there is absolutely nothing romantic happening between them, despite a series of social media posts and public interactions that had fans and tabloids in a frenzy. The truth, as is often the case in the Bravo universe, is far more nuanced than a simple relationship status, involving dramatic shifts in alliance and a newfound bond forged in the aftermath of "Scandoval."

The intense speculation reached a fever pitch following what many fans dubbed a "soft launch" post by Lala, which instantly ignited a firestorm across social media platforms and gossip columns. However, the stars themselves have since clarified that their connection is purely platonic—a genuine, deep friendship that has surprised many viewers given their contentious past on the show. This article breaks down the definitive facts, the history that led to the rumors, and what their current relationship means for the future of the *Vanderpump Rules* cast.

The Essential Profiles: Lala Kent and Tom Schwartz

To fully grasp the magnitude of these dating rumors, it's crucial to understand the individual journeys of the two central figures, both of whom have navigated significant public breakups and personal transformations.

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Lala Kent (Lauren Elyse Burningham)

• Born: September 2, 1990 (Age: 35 as of 2025)
• Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah
• Occupation: Reality Television Personality, Author, Entrepreneur (Give Them Lala Beauty, Give Them Lala Skin), Podcast Host ("Give Them Lala")
• Notable Relationships: Ex-fiancé Randall Emmett (father of her daughter, Ocean Kent Emmett).
• VPR Debut: Season 4
• Current Status: Single, focused on motherhood and her businesses. She recently welcomed her second child.

Tom Schwartz (Thomas William Schwartz)

• Born: October 16, 1982 (Age: 43 as of 2025)
• Hometown: Woodbury, Minnesota
• Occupation: Reality Television Personality, Restaurateur (Tom Tom, Schwartz & Sandy's)
• Notable Relationships: Ex-wife Katie Maloney.
• VPR Debut: Season 1
• Current Status: Recently revealed on "Watch What Happens Live" that he is no longer dating the person he was previously seeing, but he is actively dating and exploring new connections.

The Infamous ‘Soft Launch’ That Fueled the Fire

The rumors of a romantic connection between Lala and Schwartz didn't materialize out of thin air; they were directly sparked by a seemingly innocent but highly suggestive social media post. Lala Kent, known for her sharp wit and directness, playfully posted a picture or video that featured Schwartz in a way typically reserved for a new romantic partner—a move fans have dubbed a "soft launch."

This post immediately sent the *Vanderpump Rules* fandom into a tailspin. The idea of the fiery, outspoken Lala dating the famously non-confrontational Schwartz was a storyline too juicy to ignore. It was a perfect storm of curiosity: two recently single cast members with a complicated past suddenly appearing very close. The online chatter quickly escalated, with some sources even claiming they were secretly living together or expecting a baby, which both stars vehemently denied.

The entire scenario highlighted a dramatic shift in their relationship. For years, Lala and Schwartz had been on opposing sides, largely due to Schwartz's unwavering loyalty to Tom Sandoval, who was a close friend of Lala's ex-fiancé, Randall Emmett, and later, the central figure in the "Scandoval" cheating scandal. Their newfound closeness was a direct result of the cast's changing dynamics post-Scandoval, where Lala became one of Schwartz's harshest critics—and eventually, a close confidante.

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The Definitive Truth: Why They Are Not Dating

Despite the persistent online speculation and the dramatic nature of the rumors, both Lala Kent and Tom Schwartz have issued clear, consistent denials. The most recent and definitive information, confirmed by multiple sources and the stars themselves, is that they are simply close friends.

On her own podcast, "Untraditionally Lala," Lala Kent took the opportunity to set the record straight, directly addressing the "soft launch" drama and the dating rumors. She made it clear that their bond is a strong, platonic friendship. This was further cemented when Schwartz appeared on the podcast and provided his own relationship update, stating he was dating someone new, effectively clearing up the speculation about Lala.

A source close to the stars also confirmed to TMZ that "Tom Schwartz and Lala Kent have nothing romantic going on with each other," dismissing the wave of social media speculation.

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Key Facts About Their Non-Romance:

• Platonic Bond: Their relationship is described as a close, supportive friendship.
• Schwartz's New Focus: Tom Schwartz is currently focused on dating and exploring new relationships outside of the *Vanderpump Rules* cast.
• Lala's Motherhood: Lala remains single, prioritizing her life as a mother to her two children.
• The Rumors Were Wild: Speculation was so rampant it included claims of secret cohabitation and even a pregnancy, all of which were false.

A Complex History: From Feud to Friendship on VPR Season 11

The shift from enemies to close friends is perhaps the most compelling part of the Lala and Schwartz dynamic, making the dating rumors understandable, if inaccurate. Their relationship on *Vanderpump Rules* has always been fraught with tension, primarily due to Schwartz's proximity to two men who have caused Lala significant pain: Randall Emmett and, more recently, Tom Sandoval.

For seasons, Lala was furious that Schwartz maintained a friendship with Sandoval, especially after the latter’s affair with Raquel Leviss—a scandal that rocked the entire cast. Lala, who has always championed honesty and accountability, repeatedly challenged Schwartz for his perceived lack of loyalty to his ex-wife, Katie Maloney, and his continued defense of Sandoval.

However, Season 11 of *Vanderpump Rules* saw a thawing of this relationship. As the cast dynamics fractured, Lala and Schwartz found common ground. Lala’s demand for accountability and Schwartz’s passive-aggressive nature seemed to give way to a mutual understanding. They began to share genuine moments, leading to a surprisingly strong friendship. This newfound bond was evident during the season, culminating in a dynamic where they could openly discuss difficult topics, such as Sandoval's presence on the cast's Tahoe trip.

This evolution from bitter adversary to trusted friend explains the intensity of the dating rumors. In the high-stakes world of reality television, a sudden, deep connection between two people who were once at odds is often interpreted as romantic. For Lala and Schwartz, however, it appears to be a rare case of a truly platonic, supportive friendship blossoming in the chaotic environment of Bravo’s most dramatic show.