Lala Kent is “proud” of Jax Taylor for coming clean about his cocaine addiction.
“That is not easy to admit,” Kent, 34, said during her Amazon Live on Tuesday, March 4. “This is going to be his journey and his journey only, and he should be the only one to speak on it because none of us know what he’s been through in his life.”
During Tuesday’s episode of Alex Baskin‘s “Hot Mic” podcast, Taylor, 45, announced that he is “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.”
The reality star added that he recently cut out alcohol to help him stay clean from cocaine and was 83 days sober.
Kent — who starred on Vanderpump Rules with Taylor and his estranged wife, Brittany Cartwright, for nearly five years — is hopeful that this is the start of a brand-new chapter for her former costar.
“Now that Jax has come out talking about his addiction, it’s a very, very delicate subject,” she said. “Sobriety for someone, it’s not one size fits all. Everyone has a different level of addiction but addiction is addiction.”
Kent herself has spoken openly about her struggles with addiction and her decision to get sober. During her Amazon Live, the “Give Them Lala” podcast host revealed she has been in a program for “six years, four months and some change.”
While Kent supported Taylor for revealing such personal information, she also offered her support for Cartwright, 36 — who shares 3-year-old son Cruz with Taylor.
“Brittany is one of my dearest friends. I know a lot,” Kent 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.”
After Taylor’s podcast appearance, Cartwright addressed her estranged husband’s revelations in a social media post.
“His addiction unfortunately has done irreparable damage to my son and I,” she wrote via her Instagram Story. “I’ve spent years trying to help him. I wish more than anyone I could say how proud I am of him today, but I’d be lying. His actions will speak for themselves.”
For now, Kent is wishing Taylor “nothing but the best in his sobriety.” She also took the opportunity to share a positive message to anyone struggling with addiction.
“I went to a really great meeting last night that was much needed and then Scheana [Shay] texted me about Jax,” Kent said. “Your heart feels broken, but 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).
