Tom Sandoval has revealed that he and other Vanderpump Rules cast members were aware of Jax Taylor’s 

struggles with substance abuse long before the reality star publicly admitted to his addiction.

During a recent appearance on “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen,” Sandoval was asked about Taylor’s candid revelation regarding his addiction to cocaine and alcohol. 

Sandoval, 42, confirmed that Taylor’s substance abuse issues were no secret among their friend group.

“Yes, I was somewhat aware of his problems with addiction,” Sandoval admitted. “I mean, I’m around him. I’ve been around him over the years, obviously.”

When host Andy Cohen asked if other Vanderpump Rules cast members were also aware of Taylor’s drug use, Sandoval gave a firm response: “Yes.”

Despite Taylor’s struggles, Sandoval took a moment to praise his former best friend for opening up about his battle with addiction and committing to sobriety.

“I think that’s amazing,” he said. “I’m so proud of him. I think that’s so awesome. He really seems like he’s really been working on himself for real this time.”

Jax Taylor Comes Clean About His Addiction

Taylor, 45, made headlines earlier this week when he publicly admitted to struggling with substance abuse for over two decades.

During an emotional episode of the Bravo podcast, Hot Mic, the reality star revealed that he had been battling addiction on and off since the age of 23.

“This is tough to say… I’m an addict,” Taylor confessed. “I have substance issues, primarily with cocaine. Oh, that’s hard to say out loud. I’ve been dealing with this for I think the last—on and off—since I was 23.”

Taylor explained that his substance abuse patterns would fluctuate—sometimes he would take breaks, while at other times, his drug use would intensify.

“I think a lot of people who watched Vanderpump Rules over the years could kinda tell that I was on something,” he admitted.

He also addressed his alcohol consumption, explaining that while he does not necessarily see himself as addicted to drinking, it played a role in his drug use.

“I can’t do cocaine without drinking, so I just gave up both,” he said. “And I’m proud to say I’m 82, 83 days sober right now.”

Personal Struggles Fueled His Addiction

Taylor shared that he decided to seek professional help after experiencing what he described as the “hardest year” of his life. His downward spiral began when his estranged wife, Brittany Cartwright, announced their separation, eventually filing for divorce.

“When Brittany and I separated is when the addiction got worse,” he admitted.

His struggles hit rock bottom after an incident where he lashed out at Cartwright while their three-year-old son, Cruz, was present. This alarming moment prompted Taylor to take a hard look at himself and recognize that he needed help.

In an effort to get his life back on track, Taylor checked into rehab twice. He was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and narcissistic personality traits.

Brittany Cartwright Responds to Taylor’s Revelation

Following Taylor’s public admission, his estranged wife Brittany Cartwright took to social media to share her thoughts.

In a candid statement, Cartwright, 35, revealed that she had spent years trying to help Taylor overcome his struggles. However, she admitted that she did not yet feel ready to celebrate his newfound sobriety.

“I wish more than anyone I could say how proud I am of him today, but I’d be lying,” she wrote in an Instagram Story. “His actions will speak for themselves.”

Cartwright also defended her past decisions to marry Taylor and have a child with him, explaining that she “could not help” that she “fell in love” with him.

“I’ve done absolutely everything in my power to get him the help he desperately needed,” she continued. “Unfortunately, I was naive and believed his empty promises and his pleads to change for years.”

Despite the painful history between them, Taylor and Cartwright remain co-parents to their young son. While Taylor works on his sobriety, Cartwright has been focused on moving forward and prioritizing her own well-being.

A Turning Point for Jax Taylor?

Jax Taylor has long been one of Vanderpump Rules’ most controversial figures, known for his explosive personality, infidelity, and party lifestyle. However, his public acknowledgment of addiction—and his commitment to getting clean—marks a significant turning point in his journey.

While it remains to be seen whether Taylor’s sobriety will last, his friends and former co-stars—like Tom Sandoval—seem to be rooting for his success.

As Taylor continues to navigate recovery, the reality star will have to prove—both to himself and to those who have supported him—that he is truly ready to leave his past behind and build a healthier future.

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