‘VR:’ Ariana Madix Misses Late Friend’s Funeral, Why?

Ariana Madix of Bravo’s Vanderpump Rules is currently mourning the death of her dear friend, Ali Rafiq. The reality TV personality was spotted looking deep in thought at LAX over the weekend just after learning of her friend’s passing.

Shielding her sad eyes with a pair of sunglasses, she was keeping a low profile in a baggy brown sweatshirt and a pair of brown sweatpants. With her short locks pulled back in a ponytail, she had headphones over her ears as she appeared to be consumed in whatever she was doing on her phone.

As more information about Ariana’s late friend’s passing comes out, TMZ learns Ariana did NOT attend her friend’s funeral. She, however, did reportedly pay he respects to her late friend by sending flowers to his family. Why didn’t Ariana Madix attend Ali Rafiq’s funeral? Was she avoiding Tom Sandoval? Keep reading for the details.

VR: Ariana Madix Misses Late Friend’s Funeral, Why?

According to TMZ, Ali Rafiq’s family confirms their religious beliefs made it difficult for his friends living in other states with other commitments to make it to his funeral. As Muslims, Ariana Madix’s deceased friend’s family’s religion calls for bodies to get buried as soon as possible. So, Ariana’s dear friend was buried the day after his body was discovered (as soon as it was released to the family).

With such short notice, it was impossible for Ariana Madix to drop everything and travel to be there for the funeral. She, however, did make an effort to send flowers in her absence.

Unfortunately, Tom Sandoval was also unable to attend the funeral for the same reason. Tom and Ariana’s absences from the funeral, however, had nothing to do with the current tension between them.

To give those who couldn’t rush to attend a chance to mourn, the family does plan to do a celebration of life at a later date in St. Louis and possibly one in Los Angeles as well. Fans suspect Ariana and Tom will likely attend one (or both) of these celebrations of life.

Do you understand why it would have been difficult for Tom Sandoval or Ariana Madix to attend their late friend’s funeral considering how fast things happened? Or, do you think they should have dropped everything and found a way to be there? Let us know in the comments down below. And, keep coming back for more Bravo news.

Rest in peace, Ali Rafiq.