Jax Taylor is confronting some tough personal truths.
In a candid solo episode of the “When Reality Hits” podcast, which he co-hosts with ex-wife Brittany Cartwright, the 45-year-old star of The Valley openly discussed his self-perception and the challenges he’s facing. Taylor, addressing a fan’s question about his potential narcissism, did not shy away from acknowledging his problematic behaviors.
“I’m going to be honest with this. Yes, I do agree,” Taylor stated. “I’ve recently learned a lot about terms I wasn’t aware of before, and I’m probably going to get into trouble for admitting this, but I recognize myself in these descriptions. I’ve been exhibiting these behaviors for years without knowing what they were called.”
Taylor listed behaviors like “breadcrumbing,” “love bombing,” and “gaslighting,” admitting that he’s realized he exhibits these traits. “I look up these terms and think, ‘Oh my God, I do that too.’ It’s disorienting to think I might be labeled in this way, but I have to humble myself and accept the reality.”
Though Taylor emphasized, “I am not a doctor, so I can’t diagnose myself,” he conceded that his behaviors align with the narcissistic traits described in definitions he’s found. “I can’t dispute what people are saying about me,” he acknowledged. “I see that I exhibit many traits of narcissism, and I’ve been this way for years without realizing it.”
These revelations come at a challenging time for Taylor. In late July, he entered an in-patient treatment center to address mental health issues. A representative for Taylor confirmed his treatment, noting, “Jax has always been open about his mental health struggles, particularly in recent months. He decided to seek in-patient care, and we ask for privacy as he focuses on his well-being.”
Taylor’s personal difficulties were compounded by recent changes in his personal life. On August 27, Cartwright filed for divorce after four years of marriage, according to court documents obtained by PEOPLE. The separation date is listed as January 24, with “irreconcilable differences” cited as the reason. Cartwright is seeking legal and physical custody of their 3-year-old son, Cruz Michael Cauchi, while requesting visitation rights for Taylor. She has also asked for the termination of spousal support for both parties.
The divorce filing followed the couple’s earlier decision to take a “time apart,” underscoring the turbulent period both are navigating.