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As the anticipation builds for Season 2 of The Valley, Jax Taylor has candidly shared insights into his battles with substance use disorder. During a recent episode of Bravo’s Hot Mic, which aired on March 4, he offered a deep dive into how these struggles shaped his time on Vanderpump Rules and influenced his relationship with ex-wife Brittany Cartwright.
A Difficult Disclosure
Taylor described his revelation as “tough,” stating, “I’m an addict. I have substance issues, primarily with cocaine.”
He emphasized his reasons for opening up, noting that he aims to convey a more authentic narrative that might be overlooked because of the large cast on The Valley. “I feel like sometimes the whole story of each person is not told fully,” he said. “I wanted to share the struggles that I’ve faced for a long time.”
At 45, Taylor disclosed that he has battled substance use intermittently since he was 23, experiencing phases of cessation and periods of heavy use. Currently, he reports being “California sober” for over 80 days, expressing that this state feels “really, really good.”
Reflections on Vanderpump Rules
Looking back, Taylor realized he may not have concealed his substance use as effectively as he believed while filming Vanderpump Rules. “Viewers could probably sense that I was on something,” he acknowledged.
He remarked on reviewing past episodes, realizing, “Jesus, how big are my f*cking pupils? Like, I’m sweating. There’s no reason to be sweating in this scene.”
According to Taylor, there were times during production when crew members expressed concern. “They did pull me aside a couple of times,” he mentioned, but noted that they attributed his behavior to drinking rather than drug use. “Production and people didn’t know what I was doing. Everything I was doing was on my own. I was just on that train and couldn’t get off,” he explained.
Impact on His Marriage
Taylor’s path to sobriety included two rehab stints and reaching what he labels “rock bottom” following his split from Cartwright last February after five years of marriage.
Taylor admitted that his addiction contributed significantly to his marital challenges, acknowledging issues such as extreme anger and insecurity that resulted in infidelity. He expressed a desire for Cartwright, with whom he shares their three-year-old son Cruz, to recognize his genuine efforts. “I’m doing everything she’s asked,” he affirmed. “The rehab, the therapy, the drug testing, the getting help. I take care of my son as much as she allows me to.”
In response, Cartwright shared her thoughts with People, expressing gratitude for Taylor’s honesty as it allows her to address their family’s trauma openly. “I’ve tried desperately to help him without success,” she admitted, adding her hope for his full recovery from addiction.
While she remains cautious and finds his behavior concerning, Cartwright is committed to navigating this challenging situation for her and Cruz’s sake. “Jax has caused an enormous amount of damage, and I have very little trust in him at this point,” she stated, emphasizing her hope that one day, he will become a better person for their son.
If you or someone you know is seeking help for substance use, call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
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