What Happened to Jason Michael Cauchi?
Jax Taylor, known for his prominent role on Bravo's 'Vanderpump Rules,' has transitioned from reality TV stardom and business ventures to focusing on personal growth. Following his departure from 'The Valley' and an ongoing divorce from Brittany Cartwright, Taylor is prioritizing sobriety, mental health, and co-parenting their son, Cruz, as of early 2026.
Quick Answer
Jax Taylor, a former star of 'Vanderpump Rules' and 'The Valley,' is currently navigating a significant personal transformation. He officially exited 'The Valley' in July 2025 to focus on his sobriety and mental health. As of April 2026, he is in the process of divorcing Brittany Cartwright, with whom he shares son Cruz, and has recently moved into a new home, aiming for a quieter lifestyle centered on fatherhood and well-being.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline16 events
Born Jason Michael Cauchi
Jax Taylor was born Jason Michael Cauchi in Shelby Township, Michigan.
Modeling Career in Europe and U.S.
Before reality TV, Taylor worked as a model in Europe and the U.S., signing with Ford Models and appearing in various magazines and campaigns.
Debuts on 'Vanderpump Rules'
Jax Taylor became an original cast member of Bravo's 'Vanderpump Rules,' gaining fame as a bartender at SUR Restaurant.
Begins Relationship with Brittany Cartwright
Taylor started dating Brittany Cartwright, who later joined the cast of 'Vanderpump Rules.'
Marries Brittany Cartwright
Jax Taylor and Brittany Cartwright married in a lavish ceremony at a castle in Versailles, Kentucky, which was featured on 'Vanderpump Rules.'
Exits 'Vanderpump Rules'
Taylor and Cartwright announced their departure from 'Vanderpump Rules' after eight seasons, a move later attributed to his behavior by producers.
Son Cruz Michael Cauchi is Born
Jax and Brittany welcomed their first child, a son named Cruz Michael Cauchi.
Launches 'When Reality Hits' Podcast
Jax and Brittany launched their joint podcast, 'When Reality Hits with Jax and Brittany,' discussing their lives and reality TV.
Opens Jax's Studio City Bar
Taylor opened his own sports bar, 'Jax's Studio City,' in Los Angeles, a venture he initially co-owned with Brittany.
Stars in 'The Valley'
Jax Taylor and Brittany Cartwright joined the cast of the new Bravo spin-off series 'The Valley.'
Enters Mental Health Treatment
Amid marital issues, Taylor entered a 30-day mental health treatment program, where he addressed substance abuse.
Brittany Files for Divorce
Brittany Cartwright officially filed for divorce from Jax Taylor after their separation earlier in the year.
Departs 'The Valley' and Jax's Studio City
Taylor announced his exit from 'The Valley' and ended his partnership with Jax's Studio City, citing a focus on sobriety and mental health.
Moves to New Home, Focuses on Sobriety
Taylor moved out of his L.A. townhouse, signaling a 'new chapter' and reports confirmed he's been sober for over a year, focusing on fatherhood.
'The Valley' Season 3 Premieres Without Him
The third season of 'The Valley' premiered, subtly confirming Taylor's absence by showing the removal of his bar's sign.
Co-star Accuses Him of Continued Mistreatment
As of today, 'The Valley' co-star Zack Wickham publicly accused Jax Taylor of still mistreating Brittany Cartwright despite his sobriety claims.
🔍Deep Dive Analysis
Jax Taylor, born Jason Michael Cauchi, rose to prominence as an original cast member of Bravo's hit reality series 'Vanderpump Rules' in 2013. His tumultuous relationships, particularly with Stassi Schroeder and later Brittany Cartwright, and his 'bad-boy' persona made him a central figure on the show for eight seasons. He married Brittany Cartwright in June 2019, and their wedding was featured on the show. In December 2020, Taylor and Cartwright announced their departure from 'Vanderpump Rules,' a decision that was later clarified by producers as a termination due to his behavior, including alleged attempts to sabotage production.
After leaving 'Vanderpump Rules,' Taylor and Cartwright welcomed their son, Cruz Michael Cauchi, in April 2021. They continued their reality television presence by launching a podcast, 'When Reality Hits with Jax and Brittany,' in March 2023. In October 2023, Taylor ventured into the hospitality industry, opening 'Jax's Studio City,' a sports bar in Los Angeles. Concurrently, he joined the cast of the 'Vanderpump Rules' spin-off, 'The Valley,' which premiered in March 2024, alongside Brittany.
However, 2024 marked a period of significant personal upheaval. In early 2024, Jax and Brittany separated, and he entered a 30-day mental health treatment program in July 2024, during which he reportedly confronted issues with substance abuse. Brittany officially filed for divorce in August 2024, and their son Cruz was diagnosed with autism that same year, a detail revealed in April 2025. The second season of 'The Valley' heavily documented their marital struggles and Taylor's personal challenges.
In July 2025, Taylor announced his departure from 'The Valley,' citing a need to focus on his sobriety, mental health, and co-parenting. Shortly thereafter, he also ended his partnership with Jax's Studio City, aligning with his commitment to a healthier lifestyle away from nightlife. As of February 2026, sources indicate Taylor has been sober for over a year and three months and has moved into a new home, embracing a quieter life dedicated to his son. The third season of 'The Valley,' which premiered on April 1, 2026, subtly acknowledged his exit by showing the removal of his bar's sign. Despite his stated commitment to change, the divorce from Brittany Cartwright remains unfinalized as of April 2026, with Brittany citing delays due to Jax not submitting all necessary paperwork. Recent comments from 'The Valley' co-star Zack Wickham in April 2026 suggest that Jax's treatment of Brittany has not significantly improved, despite his claims of sobriety.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Jason Michael Cauchi made different choices?