Scheana Shay Reacts to Jax Taylor’s Cocaine Addiction Revelation

Scheana Shay is grateful Jax Taylor is putting his health first after sharing his cocaine addiction with the world.

“I think that was a long time coming,” Shay, 39, told People in an interview published Thursday, March 6. “Jax has put [Brittany Cartwright] and her son through a lot, and I’m glad that he is finally taking care of himself and sober.”

During the Tuesday, March 4, episode of Alex Baskin‘s “Hot Mic” podcast, Taylor, 45, publicly admitted to being “an addict.”

“I have substance issues — primarily with cocaine. It’s hard to say out loud,” he shared. “I’ve been dealing with this on and off since I was 23 and now I’m 45.”

After Taylor shared on the podcast that he was 83 days sober, Shay expressed her wish that her longtime costar continues to make good decisions.

“I just hope that he continues on this path,” she shared, “not only for him himself, but for Brittany and for their son.”

Shay and Taylor were both original cast members of Vanderpump Rules when the show premiered in January 2013. Cartwright, 36, made her first appearance in season 4 and went on to marry Taylor in June 2019.

After exiting Vanderpump Rules in 2020, Taylor and Cartwright — who share Cruz, 3 — split in February 2024 after nearly five years of marriage. Their divorce is expected to be documented in season 2 of The Valley.

“Brittany and Cruz have always been my priority in this situation,” Shay said in her latest interview. “I know everything, and I just want her to have a peaceful life. I want Cruz to grow up with two parents who put him as their priority.”

Shay isn’t the only Vanderpump Rules star to speak out about Taylor’s addiction battles.

During an Amazon Live, Lala Kent expressed her support for Taylor while also acknowledging how difficult his addiction has been on his immediate family members.

“Brittany is one of my dearest friends. I know a lot,” Kent, 34, said. “I don’t know what is going to be shown on their new season of The Valley. What I do know is I’m very close with her and anything that we’ve discussed, that is her story to share.”

She added, “There’s so much hope in sobriety. That’s what I’m feeling for him. Very, very hopeful and excited to see what his future holds if he chooses down this path. Absolutely amazing.”

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).