Tom Sandoval Acknowledges Jax Taylor’s Addiction Journey: “He’s Working on Himself”
In a candid moment during an episode of “Watch What Happens Live,” Tom Sandoval, a familiar face from the Bravo reality series “Vanderpump Rules,” shed light on his former co-star Jax Taylor’s ongoing battle with addiction. Sandoval’s remarks came shortly after Taylor revealed he was “83 days sober” from cocaine—an admission that resonated deeply within their friend circle, despite the public’s surprise. Sandoval, 42, expressed pride in Taylor’s progress, indicating that he and other cast members were well aware of the struggles Taylor faced throughout the years.
Jax Taylor, now 45, has had a long history with substance abuse that he first grappled with at the tender age of 23. His emotional revelation on the “Hot Mic Podcast” marked a significant turning point, as he admitted, “I am an addict. I have substance issues—primarily with cocaine.” This moment of vulnerability, he claimed, felt like a “huge weight lifted off my shoulders.” It’s a testament to the ongoing stigma surrounding addiction that even those closest to the issue often feel burdened by silence.
Adding to the complexity of this narrative is the perspective of Brittany Cartwright, Taylor’s estranged wife and former co-star, who articulated the profound impact of his addiction on their family. In a statement to PEOPLE, she expressed relief that Taylor finally acknowledged his struggles but also voiced skepticism about his treatment and its effects on their 3-year-old son. She remarked, “His addiction unfortunately has done irreparable damage to my son and I.” This echoes a common sentiment among families dealing with addiction, where the road to recovery is fraught with emotional turmoil and uncertainty.
Fellow cast member Lala Kent chimed in, emphasizing the deeply personal nature of Taylor’s journey and the complexities of sobriety, stating, “Sobriety is not one size fits all.” This collective narrative highlights the often overlooked reality that addiction affects not just the individual but also their loved ones, creating a web of challenges that extend far beyond the initial issue.
As Taylor embarks on this difficult path toward recovery, his story serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and understanding in the face of addiction. For anyone grappling with similar issues, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) helpline provides support and guidance at 1-800-662-HELP.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, Bravo, TMZ
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