Jax Taylor Reveals Status for ‘The Valley’ Season 3

Jax Taylor is taking a step back from reality television.

“The Valley” star revealed that he will not be returning for Season 3 of Bravo’s hit show in order to focus on his recovery and mental health, Variety reports.

“After an incredibly challenging year and many honest conversations with my team and producers, I’ll be stepping away from the next season of ‘The Valley.’ Right now, my focus needs to be on my sobriety, my mental health, and coparenting relationship. Taking this time is necessary for me to become the best version of myself — especially for our son, Cruz,” Taylor said in a statement to the outlet.

Jax Taylor Opened Up About Addiction

During the March 4 episode of Bravo’s “Hot Mic” podcast, Taylor opened up about his cocaine addiction, which he had been dealing with for 20 years.

“I felt like this was the time to do it. We have season 2 of ‘The Valley’ coming out shortly, and I feel like sometimes because there are so many cast members, that the whole story of each person is not told fully. And I wanted to come out and talk about the struggles that I’ve been going through for a very, very long time. And I kind of wanted everyone to know this is what happened,” Taylor explained. “I am coming out that I’m an addict.

“I have substance issues — primarily with cocaine. It’s hard to say out loud,” Taylor continued. “I’ve been dealing with this on and off since I was 23, and now I’m 45. There was times where I would stop doing it but then there were times where I’d go heavy on it. I think a lot of people who watched Vanderpump Rules over the years could kind of tell that I was on something.”

Jax Taylor Reveals Who Has Helped Him During This Difficult Time

On the “Hot Mic” podcast, Taylor talked about how this is “probably the hardest year of my life,” as he navigates his addiction issues while going through a very high-profile divorce.

“I’m going through a divorce right now which is extremely difficult,” Taylor said. “And when Brittany and I separated, that’s when the addiction got worse.”

However, he has one person who has truly been his support system.

“I try to lean on Tom Schwartz as much as I can,” he added. “He’s got a lot of stuff going on in his life right now.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).