Ariana Madix is standing by Brittany Cartwright as “The Valley” star navigates her public split from estranged husband Jax Taylor. In a new interview, the “Vanderpump Rules” alum didn’t hold back her thoughts on the toxic behavior viewers have seen unfold between Cartwright and Taylor this seasonâand made it clear she’s proud of her former castmate for walking away.
At the same time, Madix offered subtle updates on where she stands with other longtime co-stars, revealing a fractured dynamic with some and quiet support for others.
Ariana Madix Speaks Out: ‘I’m Proud of Brittany’
As criticism around Jax Taylor’s behavior continues to grow in season 2 of “The Valley,” Ariana Madix is weighing in. In an interview with Variety, the “Vanderpump Rules” alum called out what she’s seen, making it clear she supports Cartwright’s decision to separate from Taylor.
“What I know of it, it’s horrible. And I’m proud of Brittany for finding her voice and getting out of that,” Madix told the outlet.
The comment comes after Taylor admitted during the show that some of his behavior toward Cartwright, 36, could be described as abusive. Fans and castmates alike have rallied around Cartwright, who officially filed for divorce in August 2024.
Though Madix has been busy with her Broadway run in Chicago and hosting season 7 of “Love Island,” she’s reportedly kept in touch with Cartwright during the breakup. That Bravo bond was on display again in March 2025, when the two reunited backstage at the iHeartRadio Music Awards in Los Angeles. Cartwright posted a sweet photo to her Instagram Story, captioning it, “Been too long!” Ariana reshared the image, accompanied by a string of heart emojis.
Where the ‘Love Island’ Host Stands With the Rest of the ‘Vanderpump Rules’ Cast
While Madix’s friendship with Cartwright remains strong, her relationships with other former “Vanderpump Rules” stars have shifted.
Madix cut ties with Tom Sandoval in 2023 after discovering he had been cheating on her with co-star Rachel “Raquel” Leviss. The fallout didn’t stop with ScandovalâTom Schwartz also lost Madix’s trust when he admitted to knowing about the affair and staying silent.
Scheana Shay and Madix have remained in occasional contact, though Shay admitted in an October 2024 episode of “Watch What Happens Live” that their friendship has changed. âWe aren’t as close as we once were,” Scheana said. “But we have so much love for each other, so I know we’ll get back.”
Lala Kent, however, doesn’t see a reconciliation happening. During an interview on Jeff Lewis Live, she said a reunion with Madix is unlikely. “It will never happen,” Kent stated. “Ariana, I will always be a cheerleader for… I just feel peace.”
While Madix’s circle may have shifted, she’s still keeping close ties with those who support her, and Cartwright appears to be one of them.
Fans can catch Ariana Madix every nightâexcept Wednesdaysâhosting “Love Island” on Peacock.
Tell us! Are you also “proud” of Brittany Cartwright’s moves to protect herself this season on “The Valley”? Let us know in the comments below.
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