Lisa Vanderpump’s Reaction to Jax Taylor’s Addiction

Lisa Vanderpump, the renowned restaurateur and star of Vanderpump Rules, recently shared her thoughts on Jax Taylor’s struggles with addiction. In a call to Andy Cohen’s Radio Andy on March 5, Vanderpump expressed that while she didn’t know about Taylor’s cocaine addiction, she noticed something was amiss during filming. She recalled a moment in the season 8 finale where she looked into Taylor’s eyes and felt that "something was awry." Vanderpump hoped that Taylor, now 45, would remain committed to his sobriety, acknowledging his stubborn nature but expressing support for his journey.

Jax Taylor Opens Up About His Struggles

Jax Taylor broke his silence about his cocaine addiction on the March 4 episode of Bravo’s Hot Mic podcast. He confessed, "I have substance issues—primarily with cocaine. It’s hard to say out loud." Taylor revealed that his struggles began at 23 and have continued on and off for over two decades. He emphasized that he has quit both cocaine and alcohol, stating, "I can’t do cocaine without drinking. So I just gave up both." Proudly, he shared that he is currently 83 days sober, the longest he has gone without either substance.

A Look Back at Jax’s Behavior on Vanderpump Rules

Fans of Vanderpump Rules had speculated about Taylor’s behavior, noticing signs that something was off. Taylor acknowledged these observations, admitting that producers had occasionally pulled him aside, thinking he might be drinking too much. However, he clarified that production wasn’t supplying the cast with substances. Instead, Taylor would often go off on his own during filming downtimes, visiting bars or parties. He admitted that cast members would sometimes sneak drinks before scenes, despite advice to avoid it.

Brittany Cartwright Speaks Out

Following Taylor’s revelation, his estranged wife, Brittany Cartwright, shared her perspective in an Instagram Story. She expressed that his addiction had caused "irreparable damage" to their family, including their 3-year-old son, Cruz. While she wanted to be proud of his sobriety, she stated she couldn’t feign pride, emphasizing that his actions would ultimately speak louder than his words.

The Impact of Addiction on Loved Ones

Cartwright addressed criticism about her staying in the relationship despite knowing about Taylor’s issues. She explained, "You can’t help who you fell in love with," and shared that she had tried everything to help him, believing his promises to change. She admitted to being naive and noted the challenges of leaving a relationship after having a child. Cartwright expressed relief at finding strength to move on, saying she is now in a better place.

A Message of Hope and Support

For those struggling with addiction, Cartwright and Taylor’s stories highlight the complexity and challenges of recovery. The SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) is a vital resource for those seeking help. Their journey underscores the importance of support, understanding, and the courage to seek assistance. As Taylor and Cartwright navigate their paths, their experiences serve as a reminder of the power of resilience and the hope for a healthier future.