Ariana Madix is stepping into the spotlight to deliver unfiltered thoughts on the fiery drama surrounding Brittany Cartwright and Jax Taylor’s unraveling marriage on season 2 of The Valley. In a candid new interview, the Vanderpump Rules veteran didn’t mince words about Taylor’s troubling behavior, throwing her full support behind Cartwright’s bold decision to walk away from a toxic relationship. Meanwhile, Madix dropped subtle hints about her fractured relationships with other Bravo co-stars, painting a picture of shifting alliances and enduring bonds.
Ariana Madix Backs Brittany Cartwright’s Brave Exit
As The Valley season 2 unfolds, Jax Taylor’s actions have sparked outrage among fans and castmates alike, with many labeling his behavior toward Brittany Cartwright as toxic and, at times, abusive. Ariana Madix, never one to shy away from calling it like she sees it, addressed the controversy head-on in a recent Variety interview.
“What I’ve seen is absolutely heartbreaking,” Madix said of Taylor’s treatment of Cartwright. “I’m so proud of Brittany for finding her strength and choosing herself by getting out of that situation.”
Cartwright, 36, officially filed for divorce from Taylor in August 2024, a move that sent shockwaves through the Bravo universe. Taylor’s own admission on the show that some of his actions could be seen as abusive only fueled the fire, rallying fans and friends like Madix to Cartwright’s side.
Despite her jam-packed schedule—starring in Chicago on Broadway and hosting Love Island season 7—Madix has made time to support her friend through the fallout. The duo’s unbreakable bond was on full display in March 2025, when they reunited backstage at the iHeartRadio Music Awards in Los Angeles. Cartwright shared a heartwarming Instagram Story captioned, “Been too long!” while Madix reposted it, adding a string of heart emojis that spoke volumes about their friendship.
Navigating a Fractured Vanderpump Rules Circle
While Madix-Cartwright alliance remains rock-solid, Ariana’s relationships with other Vanderpump Rules alums tell a more complicated story. The infamous “Scandoval” of 2023, when Madix discovered Tom Sandoval’s affair with Rachel “Raquel” Leviss, obliterated her trust in him. The betrayal didn’t end there—Tom Schwartz’s complicity in covering up the affair further strained their friendship, leaving Madix to sever ties with both.
Scheana Shay, however, has managed to stay in Madix’s orbit, albeit at a distance. On an October 2024 episode of Watch What Happens Live, Shay admitted their friendship isn’t what it used to be. “We’re not as tight as we were,” she confessed, “but there’s so much love there, and I know we’ll find our way back.” Madix’s subtle acknowledgment of support for Shay suggests there’s still hope for reconciliation.
Lala Kent, on the other hand, has all but closed the door on mending fences. Speaking on Jeff Lewis Live, Kent was blunt: “A reunion with Ariana? It’s not happening.” Yet, she added, “I’ll always root for her… I just feels like peace now.”
Through it all, Madix has leaned on loyal allies like Cartwright, whose strength and authenticity continue to mirror her own.
What’s Next for Ariana Madix?
As she juggles her thriving career, Madix shows no signs of slowing down. Fans can catch her hosting Love Island on Peacock, every night except Wednesdays, bringing her signature wit and charisma to the reality dating scene. Meanwhile, her outspoken support for Brittany Cartwright’s courage on The Valley has sparked renewed admiration for Madix’s loyalty and fearlessness.
What do you think of Brittany Cartwright’s decision to break free from Jax Taylor’s toxic behavior? Are you Team Ariana all the way? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and keep tuning in to The Valley for more jaw-dropping drama!