Ariana Madix’s guest appearance in Will Trent has quickly become one of the most talked-about and electrifying moments of Season 3. The Vanderpump Rules star, known for her fiery personality and memorable moments on reality television, stepped into the world of the Will Trent universe for a guest role in Episode 8, which aired on February 25, 2025. Her appearance, though brief, brought an undeniable spark to the show, showcasing her versatility as an actress in a new genre and context.
Madix portrayed a heightened version of herself, a choice that allowed her to explore a more dramatic and action-packed side of her acting range. What made her appearance even more exciting for fans was the sizzling on-screen chemistry she shared with Jake McLaughlin’s Detective Michael Ormewood. The two were involved in one of the most iconic and thrilling moments of the season, where they recreated a famous scene from the 1992 blockbuster The Bodyguard, starring Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston.
In this memorable scene, McLaughlin’s Detective Ormewood swoops in to protect Madix’s character, mirroring the dramatic moment from the classic film. The choreography was tight, and the action was intense, with McLaughlin carrying Madix to safety in a scene that was as emotionally charged as it was physically demanding. This nod to The Bodyguard brought a nostalgic touch to the show, giving fans of both the series and the 90s classic a moment of cinematic magic.
Madix herself was excited to tackle the reference, saying in an interview that she and McLaughlin were eager to make sure they got it just right. “We wanted to pay homage to The Bodyguard and really bring that energy to Will Trent,” she explained. “We watched the VHS cover for inspiration and made sure that we captured that exact vibe. It was such a fun scene to shoot.” The chemistry between Madix and McLaughlin was undeniable, with their playful yet passionate exchange adding a fresh layer to the episode. The scene culminated in a passionate kiss between the two characters, which left viewers on the edge of their seats.
The kiss, though a surprising and exciting moment, also added an intriguing layer to the characters’ dynamic. For Madix, it was a challenging and thrilling way to jump into her first scene on set. “It was actually the first scene I shot for the episode, so we went from zero to 100 really quickly,” Madix laughed. “But I think that actually worked in my favor because the energy of the scene made it easier to get into the rhythm of the show. Jake was really supportive and chatty, which helped me feel more at ease.”
The kiss, though passionate, was far from the end of Madix’s storyline. The episode left her character’s fate open-ended, which has led fans to speculate whether Madix might return for future episodes. While she hasn’t confirmed any future appearances, she did leave the possibility open, hinting that her character’s arc could continue if the demand is there. “If the fans want to see more of her, I’m definitely open to that,” Madix teased, hinting that her character’s evolution could open the door for a possible return. Given how the episode ended, many fans are hoping for more appearances from Madix, especially considering how well she fit into the Will Trent universe.
Beyond her dynamic with McLaughlin, Madix’s appearance in Will Trent brought a new energy to the show. The episode, which was filled with twists and turns, was a perfect showcase of the crime procedural genre’s ability to blend intense drama with moments of levity and emotional depth. The writers managed to incorporate Madix’s character seamlessly into the broader story, allowing her to stand out without overshadowing the core elements of the show.
Will Trent has continued to shine this season with its smart writing, gripping crime cases, and deep character development. Madix’s guest appearance only added to the show’s growing appeal, offering something a little different while still staying true to the show’s core strengths. Fans of the show have praised Madix’s performance, noting that she brought a unique flavor to the Will Trent world. Her appearance also proves that the show is willing to take risks and experiment with fresh, exciting talent to keep things interesting.
As the season continues to unfold, many viewers are left wondering what other surprises Will Trent has in store. With new twists, thrilling cases, and now the possibility of more guest stars, the show is on track to remain a fan favorite for the foreseeable future. Madix’s guest spot may have been just one episode, but it was enough to leave a lasting impact. Whether or not she returns to Will Trent in the future, it’s clear that her time on the show was a highlight of Season 3—one that fans won’t soon forget.
As for the future of Will Trent, it’s clear that the series is building something strong and lasting. The incredible performances, including those from guest stars like Madix, continue to elevate the show, making it a must-watch in the crime procedural genre. Fans will certainly be eager to see what’s next for Detective Will Trent and his team, as well as whether we’ll see more of Madix’s character in future episodes.
