“Vanderpump Rules” star Tom Sandoval has broken his silence following a cheating scandal that has rocked his relationship with girlfriend Ariana Madix. The reality TV personality recently sat down with PEOPLE to discuss the affair, which was uncovered when Madix found sexual texts between him and another woman.

“I’m not trying to make excuses, but I was going through a really difficult time,” Sandoval told the magazine. “I was in a bad place mentally and emotionally, and I made a mistake.”

Sandoval’s apology comes after weeks of rumors and speculation surrounding his alleged infidelity. Earlier this month, “Page Six” reported that Sandoval had been confronted by Madix’s friend, Raquel Leviss, about the affair, leading to a “heated confrontation” between the two women.

“I know that I hurt Ariana and I’m sorry for that,” Sandoval continued. “But I want her and everyone else to know that I’m committed to making things right and doing whatever it takes to earn back their trust.”

Despite Sandoval’s admission of guilt, some fans of the show remain skeptical about the couple’s future. “TMZ” recently reported that Sandoval’s co-star, Scheana Shay, had also been involved in a “heated confrontation” with Leviss over the affair, leading to speculation that the couple may not be able to move past the betrayal.