Jax Taylor Admits to Past Cocaine Addiction, Ex Brittany Cartwright Reacts

Reality star Jax Taylor is known for making headlines throughout his 10-year television career — and now The Valley star is a hot topic after admitting a battle with a cocaine addiction.

On Tuesday, March 4, while appearing as a guest on Bravo’s Hot Mic podcast, Jax revealed his decades-long battle with addiction to cocaine and alcohol.

“I am an addict,” the former Vanderpump Rules star said on the podcast, per PEOPLE. He continued to elaborate on his extensive struggles with substance abuse. “I have substance issues — primarily with cocaine. It’s hard to say out loud. I’ve been dealing with this on and off since I was 23 and now I’m 45," Jax said, per PEOPLE.

"There was times where I would stop doing it but then there were times where I’d go heavy on it. I’ve never said this in my life," he added. "I can’t do cocaine without drinking.”

“So I just gave up both. I’m proud to say I’m 83 days sober right now, which is the longest I’ve ever gone in my life without either," Jax said.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Brittany quickly responded to her estranged husband’s addiction revelation. “I'm glad that he finally admitted to what was really going on,” she told the outlet.

"For the first time, I can speak openly about the extent of trauma he's instilled on our family over the years," Brittany said. "I've tried desperately to help him without success. I pray that one day he completely knocks this addiction, but I'm skeptical.”

“His behaviors are still alarming and his treatment plan seems to be the bare minimum,” she said.

Jax has caused an enormous amount of damage and I have very little trust in him at this point. My only hope is that one day, he will be a better person for his son,” Brittany continued.

After initially dating back in 2015, Jax and Brittany tied the knot in 2019, and welcomed their son, Cruz, shortly after. However, their relationship was constantly strained due to cheating allegations and verbal abuse.

In February 2024, just as The Valley was premiering its first season, the couple announced their separation. In August 2024, Brittany confirmed that she officially filed for divorce.

The couple’s issues largely dominated The Valley, with multiple episodes dedicated to their constant fighting over Brittany’s drinking habits, their lack of sex, and Jax’s verbal attacks.

The runaway Bravo hit series is set to premiere in the spring, and based on reports, Jax and Brittany’s divorce will take center stage, as the couple were separated in the season finale.

Jax and Brittany aren’t the only couple from the show who have split since the finale — co-stars Jessie and Michelle Lilly have also divorced, which was announced in March 2024.

There is currently no set date for the second season of The Valley, which airs on Bravo and is available for streaming on Peacock.