"They're going to see it all": Shayne Davis gets candid about his hesitation to join Vanderpump Rules

Shayne Davis was aware that joining reality television would reveal his life. Mistakes and personal struggles are not perceived well in reality shows. To Davis, that fact alone made the choice challenging in the first place.

Season 12 of Vanderpump Rules introduced a new cast, most of whom were employed at Lisa Vanderpump's restaurant, SUR. The only main cast member who does not work in the same place is Shayne Davis. He was a unique addition, particularly because he had not even watched the show before he was invited to join.

Shayne Davis also gave his candid opinions on entering the limelight in an interview with PEOPLE. He acknowledged that he was not sure whether he wanted his actual life to be captured on camera.

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Shayne Davis on the fear of being fully exposed

Davis said he seriously questioned whether joining Vanderpump Rules was the right move.

“I almost didn't do it, to be honest with you,” he admitted.

He explained that his life includes struggles he is not proud of, and sharing those moments publicly was unsettling.

The constant filming made him uneasy. “I know what my life looks like, and it ain't always great,” Shayne Davis said.

He pointed out that reality TV does not offer privacy.

“They're following your life, and they're going to see it all,” he added, explaining why the idea made him nervous.

Despite those concerns, Davis decided to take the risk. He viewed the experience as a chance for personal growth.

“But I was like — I don't know — I'm trying to get more comfortable with myself, so screw it,” he said.

For Davis, joining the show meant facing his fears rather than avoiding them.

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Shayne Davis on friendship and the path to the show

Davis revealed that his involvement began through his longtime friendship with Marcus Johnson.

Johnson, who has worked at SUR since 2021, approached Davis about joining the show alongside Lisa Vanderpump. Until then, Davis had never seen an episode.

Their bond played a key role in his decision.

“I've been friends with this dude for almost a decade now,” Shayne Davis said. He explained how close they are, adding, “He's lived with me before.”

Their shared history made Davis feel more comfortable entering an unfamiliar space.

Davis, who is three years sober, also described how connected he is to the area.

“I eat here a lot. I'm also at AA meetings on this street,” he shared.

According to Davis, Vanderpump noticed him through those interactions.

“So Lisa saw me and was like, ‘This guy's got to do it,’” he recalled. He agreed partly out of loyalty, saying, “I can't let my boy go to war alone.”

Do you think it was a good idea for Davis to join the show? Sound off in the comments section below.

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