Andy Cohen Reacts to Jax Taylors Departure from The Valley
In a recent episode of SiriusXM’s *Andy Cohen Live*, host Andy Cohen addressed the surprising news that Jax Taylor will not be returning for the third season of *The Valley*. This announcement, made on July 16, has generated significant buzz among fans of the show and the reality TV community at large. Cohen, 57, expressed his support for Taylor’s decision, stating, “I’m very pleased with his decision and I think it is reading the room well. The most important thing is that I hope he can work on all of his issues.” This comment reflects Cohen’s understanding of the challenges that come with reality television, especially for individuals grappling with personal struggles. During the conversation, Cohen revealed that he had a serious discussion with Taylor, 46, during the season 2 reunion of *The Valley*, which is set to air later this month. “I talked to him about his need for control and his anger issues, and what it’s going to take to get to a better place with [ex-wife] Brittany [Cartwright],” Cohen explained. He emphasized the importance of Taylor taking time away from the cameras to focus on his personal growth and sobriety. Taylor’s decision to step back comes after a tumultuous year marked by challenges in his personal life, including his recent divorce from Cartwright. In his statement regarding his exit from *The Valley*, Taylor shared, “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 co-parenting. Taking this time is necessary for me to become the best version of myself — especially for our son, Cruz.” The couple shares a four-year-old son, Cruz, and their divorce, which Cartwright filed for in August 2024, has been a central theme in the series. Taylor’s commitment to focusing on his mental health and sobriety is a significant step for him, especially after revealing that he has been sober for over 200 days. During a previous appearance on *Watch What Happens Live*, he candidly discussed his struggles, stating, “To be honest with you, right now, [drugs] isn’t my issue. I’ve got a lot of other issues that I’ve got to deal with. My ego, my anger, my control, my manipulation, all these things.” Cohen expressed hope that Taylor’s time away from the spotlight will further encourage his commitment to sobriety. “He seems very committed, from our conversations, to his sobriety,” Cohen noted. “I hope that time away from the cameras will further encourage that and further encourage him to get it together.” As fans eagerly await the season finale of *The Valley*, which airs on July 22, they have witnessed the ups and downs of Jax and Brittany’s relationship throughout the season. The last few episodes have highlighted their attempts to navigate co-parenting and the complexities of their split, especially after Jax returned from a rehab facility. Cohen’s comments and Taylor’s decision to step back from the show have sparked discussions among fans and fellow reality stars alike. Tamra Judge, a former cast member of *The Real Housewives of Orange County*, weighed in on the situation, suggesting that Taylor’s departure may not be entirely voluntary. Judge speculated, “One other little snippet that I just read while we were on this podcast… Jax said he’s not returning [to The Valley].” As Taylor embarks on this new chapter focused on his health and family, fans of *The Valley* are left to ponder what this means for the future of the show and its cast dynamics. The reality TV landscape is ever-changing, and Taylor’s absence will undoubtedly be felt in the upcoming season. In conclusion, Jax Taylor’s decision to leave *The Valley* is a significant moment, not just for him but for the reality TV community as a whole. Andy Cohen’s supportive remarks highlight the importance of prioritizing mental health and personal growth, especially in the often tumultuous world of reality television. As Taylor takes this time for himself, fans will be watching closely to see how he navigates this journey and what lies ahead for both him and the show.