The Valley stars Jax Taylor and Brittany Cartwright have had their fair share of ups and downs, especially as rising tension has strained their relationship recently. Although the pair remains separated, they continue to share a deeply intertwined life as they co-parent their four-year-old son, Cruz.
A source close to Jax and Brittany revealed that Cruz’s autism diagnosis has shifted their dynamic – and may be opening the door to a renewed sense of teamwork between them. Considering dysfunction that’s been playing out between them on Season 2 of The Valley, this comes as a pleasant surprise.
Could Jax Taylor and Brittany Cartwright now peacefully co-parent?
Brittany revealed Cruz’s autism diagnosis last month and shared how she and Jax first noticed signs of change in his development. “He crawled early, he walked early. He was talking … Then, as he got closer to two, we started noticing that he was regressing in his speech.” Eventually, Cruz became mostly non-verbal, which prompted them to begin speech therapy.
Although Jax and Brittany remain apart, the diagnosis has forged a new kind of connection between them. “It’s brought them closer together,” a source told OK!. “It’s given her and Jax something outside of their relationship to focus on. She is still 100 percent the caregiver, but Jax has really been trying to be around.”
Even though Brittany holds the reins, Jax continues to make a noticeable effort to stay involved. He stood “front and center” for Cruz’s birthday celebration, and the two parents reportedly got along well during the event.
People close to Brittany especially admire how she’s handled the situation. “She’s being very proactive and really jumping on all the early interventions,” the source explained. “Everyone’s amazed by the strength she is showing through this.”
While many view Brittany as sweet and approachable, the insider pointed out there’s more to her than people realized. “Her core of strength has been a surprise,” they added. “She’s committed to doing anything and everything to make sure her son has the best life.”
Cruz, who still occasionally says words like “Mommy,” continues to make progress. “It can be difficult because I’ve never heard him say, ‘I love you,’ but he is so loving,” Brittany shared when revealing his diagnosis. “He shows me he loves me every single day.”
She added, “Yes, it might be challenging at times, but I couldn’t imagine my life being different,” and said she’s “so proud” of him and the strides he’s making.
Although their relationship remains uncertain and often volatile, Jax and Brittany seem to stay aligned when it comes to Cruz’s well-being. Hopefully, they can continue moving forward together as parents.
Season 2 of The Valley continues Tuesdays at 9/8c on Bravo and on Hayu in the UK and Ireland.
TELL US – ARE YOU SURPRISED TO HEAR THAT BRITTANY AND JAX ARE PULLING IT TOGETHER FOR THE SAKE OF CRUZ?
