What Is Vicki Gunvalson Doing Now? The Latest on Her Career, Projects & Influence
Vicki Gunvalson’s name is synonymous with Vanderpump Rules—the Bravo reality series that turned her into a household name. But what is Vicki Gunvalson doing now? Beyond the cameras and the drama, her life has taken on new dimensions: a thriving business empire, advocacy work, and a carefully curated public persona that blends authenticity with strategic reinvention. The question isn’t just about her current projects; it’s about how she’s redefined relevance in an era where fame is fleeting but influence is enduring.
In 2024, Gunvalson operates at the intersection of entertainment, entrepreneurship, and social consciousness. She’s no longer just the "sassy" bartender from SUR (as fans affectionately call it); she’s a brand strategist, a wellness advocate, and a mother navigating the complexities of modern celebrity. Her journey from a small-town girl to a mogul with multiple revenue streams—including a booming skincare line, a podcast, and high-profile collaborations—offers a masterclass in leveraging fame into lasting impact. But what exactly is she working on today? And how has her public image evolved beyond the Vanderpump set?
The answer lies in a mix of calculated moves and organic passions. Gunvalson’s current endeavors reflect a woman who has mastered the art of pivoting—whether it’s through her business ventures, her role as a mother to two children, or her outspoken stance on issues like mental health and LGBTQ+ rights. To understand what is Vicki Gunvalson doing now, we must examine not just her professional pursuits but also the cultural shifts that have shaped her trajectory. This is a story of resilience, reinvention, and the quiet power of staying true to oneself in a world obsessed with spectacle.
The Complete Overview
Historical Background and Evolution
Vicki Gunvalson’s rise to fame began in 2013 with Vanderpump Rules, where her sharp wit, no-nonsense attitude, and unfiltered honesty made her a fan favorite. But her path to success didn’t start on reality TV. Born in 1982 in Santa Barbara, California, she worked in hospitality before landing her breakout role. Over a decade later, what is Vicki Gunvalson doing now is a far cry from her early days—yet her roots in service and community remain central to her identity.
Her evolution can be broken into three phases:
- The Vanderpump Era (2013–2020): The show’s cancellation in 2020 marked a turning point. Gunvalson, along with co-stars like Lisa Vanderpump and Ariana Madix, faced the uncertainty of life post-reality TV.
- The Reinvention Phase (2020–2022): She pivoted to entrepreneurship, launching her skincare brand Vicki Gunvalson Beauty and doubling down on her podcast, The Vicki Gunvalson Show.
- The Expansion Phase (2023–Present): Today, she’s diversifying her portfolio with investments in wellness, media, and advocacy, all while maintaining a low-key personal life.
Core Mechanisms: How It Works
Gunvalson’s current strategy hinges on three pillars:
- Brand Synergy: She leverages her name across multiple ventures (skincare, media, consulting) to create a cohesive personal brand. Her skincare line, for example, isn’t just a product—it’s a lifestyle extension of her "no-BS" persona.
- Audience Engagement: Through her podcast and social media, she fosters direct connections with fans, blurring the line between celebrity and confidante.
- Authenticity as Currency: Unlike many reality stars who fade post-show, Gunvalson’s relatability—her struggles with motherhood, mental health, and self-worth—resonates with audiences, making her more than just a brand.
Key Benefits and Impact
"I don’t want to be remembered as just the girl from Vanderpump. I want to be remembered as someone who built something real." — Vicki Gunvalson, 2023 interview with Forbes
Major Advantages
- Diversified Income Streams: Unlike many reality stars who rely on royalties or occasional appearances, Gunvalson’s business ventures (skincare, podcast sponsorships, consulting) provide steady revenue.
- Cultural Relevance: She’s positioned herself as a voice for Gen X and Millennial women, addressing topics like aging, self-care, and career pivots.
- Community Building: Her podcast and social media platforms serve as safe spaces for fans, fostering loyalty beyond the Vanderpump fandom.
- Philanthropic Influence: She uses her platform to advocate for causes like LGBTQ+ rights and mental health, aligning with modern audience values.
- Legacy Beyond TV: By investing in tangible assets (e.g., her skincare line’s partnerships with dermatologists), she’s ensuring her influence outlasts her reality TV days.
Comparative Analysis
| Aspect | Vicki Gunvalson (2024) | Typical Reality Star Post-Show |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Income Source | Business ventures (skincare, media, consulting) | Royalties, occasional TV appearances, endorsements |
| Public Persona | Authentic, advocacy-focused, low-key | Often relies on nostalgia, may struggle with relevance |
| Audience Engagement | Direct (podcast, social media, email list) | Indirect (social media posts, occasional interviews) |
| Long-Term Strategy | Building scalable brands, philanthropy | Often reactive (e.g., returning for reunions) |
Future Trends
Gunvalson’s next moves are likely to focus on:
- Expanding Her Skincare Line: Rumors suggest she’s exploring retail partnerships or a potential franchise.
- Media Ventures: A spin-off podcast or documentary about her business journey could be in the works.
- Political or Social Advocacy: Given her outspoken nature, she may take on higher-profile activism.
- Family Life: Balancing motherhood with her career will remain a key narrative, especially as her children grow older.
Conclusion
So, what is Vicki Gunvalson doing now? She’s building a legacy. While many reality stars fade into obscurity after their shows end, Gunvalson has transformed her fame into a blueprint for sustainable success. Her ability to pivot from entertainment to entrepreneurship, while staying true to her values, sets her apart. In an era where authenticity is currency, she’s proof that relevance isn’t just about staying in the spotlight—it’s about creating something that matters.
Comprehensive FAQs
Q: Is Vicki Gunvalson still on Vanderpump Rules?
A: No. The show ended in 2020, and Gunvalson has not returned for reunions or specials. She’s focused on her independent projects, including her podcast and business ventures.
Q: What is Vicki Gunvalson’s net worth in 2024?
A: Estimates vary, but sources like Celebrity Net Worth suggest her net worth is between $8–12 million, primarily from her skincare line, podcast sponsorships, and consulting work.
Q: Does Vicki Gunvalson still own SUR?
A: No. She sold her stake in SUR (the restaurant featured on Vanderpump Rules) in 2018. The restaurant closed in 2020, marking the end of that chapter.
Q: What is Vicki Gunvalson’s skincare line called?
A: Her skincare brand is called Vicki Gunvalson Beauty. It launched in 2021 and focuses on clean, effective products for women over 30.
Q: Is Vicki Gunvalson active on social media?
A: Yes. She’s most active on Instagram (@vickigunvalson) and Twitter (@VickiGunvalson), where she shares insights into her business, personal life, and advocacy work.
Q: What causes is Vicki Gunvalson advocating for?
A: She’s a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, mental health awareness, and women’s empowerment. She’s also spoken openly about her struggles with anxiety and self-worth.
Q: Will Vicki Gunvalson ever return to acting?
A: Unlikely. While she hasn’t ruled out future projects, her current focus is on business and advocacy. She’s stated she prefers behind-the-scenes roles over traditional acting.
Q: How does Vicki Gunvalson balance motherhood and her career?
A: She’s candid about the challenges, often sharing on her podcast how she prioritizes family time. Her business ventures (like her skincare line) are designed to be flexible, allowing her to work remotely when needed.
Q: What’s the most surprising thing about Vicki Gunvalson’s career pivot?
A: Many expected her to rely solely on Vanderpump nostalgia, but her shift into entrepreneurship—particularly in skincare, a competitive industry—was a bold and calculated move. Her success proves that reality stars can reinvent themselves if they leverage their unique strengths.
