Tom Schwartz is giving Jax Taylor credit where credit is due.
“I see that he’s trying, trying to be better,” Tom, 42, exclusively shared with Us Weekly on Tuesday, June 17, while promoting new episodes of The Valley. “I know that he’s 202 days sober maybe today, which is impressive, especially still being a partner in a bar.”
Despite the improvements, Tom believes his longtime friend and former Vanderpump Rules costar is still a work in progress.
“Is he cured? No, he’s not,” Tom continued. “He’s still Jax Taylor, and he’s still capable of being a menace, and he’s got a lot of work to do and he knows this. He’ll say the same thing. He’s like, ‘Yes, I think I’m on the right path, but I still have a long way to go.’ He’s got a lot of work to do. He’s got a lot of demons. He really does.”
In Tuesday’s episode of The Valley, viewers will watch Jax, 45, return home from a 30-day stay at an undisclosed mental health treatment facility, where he received professional help for his anger issues.
In March, Jax also revealed on Alex Baskin‘s “Hot Mic” podcast that he is an addict and has struggled with substance issues, particularly cocaine use.
During a previous episode of The Valley, Brittany Cartwright announced she was planning to divorce Jax after five years of marriage. The couple share 4-year-old son Cruz.
After years of celebrating great highs and dramatic lows side by side on Vanderpump Rules, Tom hopes he can remain friends with both Jax and Brittany, 36 — even if the exes rarely see eye to eye.
“I have a reputation as being Mr. Ride the Fence, but it’s like I’m trying to hold compassion for this guy who’s at one of the lowest moments in his life, even though he did it to himself,” Tom explained. “I’m also not excusing any vile or despicable behavior towards Britney or anything. I still love her. She’s one of my dearest friends, too.”
Tom confirmed that he remains neighbors with Jax after he decided to move out of his and Brittany’s matrimonial home.
Contrary to what fans may assume, Tom said his new neighbor is very private and very quiet.
“I don’t hear a peep out of Jax,” he said. “I don’t hear from him much. He’s been a very respectful, chill neighbor. I can’t say the same for him as a former husband, but yeah, with me, I don’t hear a peep out of Jax. He’s very quiet.”
The Valley airs on Bravo Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET, Stream old episodes anytime via Peacock.
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).
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