Jax Taylor & Brittany Cartwright: Where Their Relationship Stood in 2017
Few reality TV couples have experienced the level of public scrutiny—and passionate fan debate—as Jax Taylor and Brittany Cartwright of Vanderpump Rules. By 2017, their romance had weathered rumors, betrayals, and some of the show’s most explosive moments. But were they still together? Below, we look back at the monumental moments, heartbreaks, and ongoing speculation that defined their relationship during this pivotal year.
The Beginning: Sparks in Sin City
Jax and Brittany’s story began in true reality TV fashion: a chance encounter in Las Vegas in 2015. Their instant connection was so strong that, within months, Brittany left her native Kentucky to move to Los Angeles with Jax. He secured her a job at SUR, thrusting her directly into Vanderpump Rules’ drama-fueled universe.
- Meeting in Vegas: Jax claimed it was love at first sight; Brittany agreed their chemistry was undeniable.
- Relocation to L.A.: Brittany moved across the country to pursue their relationship and joined the SUR roster.
- Immediate Skepticism: Fellow cast members and fans questioned whether Jax—a known playboy—could settle down.
Early Bliss and Family Pressures
Upon joining the LA scene, Brittany quickly charmed the group and viewers alike. Within the Taylor-Cartwright household, however, tensions brewed. Brittany’s mother, Sherry, became a recurring presence both on-screen and off, frequently pressing Jax about his intentions and pushing for wedding plans. This family pressure added another emotional layer to their already-volatile lives together.
- Brittany’s mother’s push: Frequent reminders from Sherry Cartwright implied that marriage should be the next step.
- Brittany’s Integration: Despite skepticism, Brittany became a beloved member of the friend group.
The Cheating Scandal That Shook the Show
No storyline defined Jax and Brittany’s relationship more than the cheating scandal aired during the sixth season, which filmed in 2017. Jax admitted to being unfaithful with fellow SURver Faith Stowers, a revelation that sent shockwaves through the tight-knit circle and devastated Brittany on and off camera.
| Event | Details | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Rumor Emergence | Faith alleges she hooked up with Jax | Distrust and anger escalate; group confronts Jax |
| Jax’s Confession | He admits to cheating in Episode 2 | Brittany is devastated, tells Jax off, and contemplated ending the relationship |
| Public Fallout | Friends take sides; Brittany receives both sympathy and pressure to move on | Relationship appears finished as Brittany insists she can’t trust Jax |
- Brittany confronted Jax, famously telling him to “Rot in hell” after his confession.
- Many friends, especially Stassi and Katie, urged Brittany to put herself first and break up for good.
Breakup and Heartbreak
After the cheating bombshell, viewers watched the couple grapple with intense emotional fallout. Jax, perhaps ironically, broke up with Brittany, citing his own issues and claiming she deserved better. Brittany called his move “a kick in the head,” pointing out that he had already caused her immense public embarrassment and heartbreak.
- Jax: “I am not good in relationships. You deserve a lot better than me.”
- Brittany expressed that the break should have come from her, given Jax’s betrayal.
- Both described feeling lost and hurt during their time apart.
The 2017 Rumor Mill: Are They Still Together?
Despite the breakup, rumors of a reconciliation continued to swirl. Paparazzi photos, social media hints, and insider claims suggested Brittany stayed close to Jax even after filming stopped. The show aired their breakup in the fall of 2017, but during post-show interviews, Jax confirmed they were giving things another try.
- Jax told The Daily Dish: “We’re still happy and we’re still together.”
- Brittany, during a reunion, stated she wanted to trust Jax again but admitted it would take time to heal.
Why Didn’t Brittany Just Leave?
Fans questioned Brittany’s decision to reconcile, given Jax’s long history of dishonesty. For her part, Brittany emphasized both her love for Jax and her desire to see him genuinely change. She admitted that forgiving Jax was a painful, often confusing journey. Likewise, Brittany’s Southern upbringing and strong family values made the idea of fighting for love understandable, even as she bristled under mounting outside pressure.
- “I had to do what made sense for me,” Brittany argued, pushing back against judgmental viewers and friends alike.
- Both she and Jax described their relationship as a work in progress requiring mutual effort and understanding.
Jax’s Perspective During the Fallout
By his own admission, Jax struggled with self-sabotage and a reputation for infidelity. Yet, as 2017 drew to a close, he repeatedly stressed his determination to grow and win Brittany back, especially after the passing of his father. This personal tragedy reportedly prompted a period of introspection, with Jax pushing for a clean slate and more open communication.
- Jax on his efforts: “I knew that I loved her still. I was trying to act like I didn’t, but in the end, I’m just so glad that we are where we are now.”
- Some insiders described Jax as persistent, reportedly calling Brittany dozens of times to ensure they stayed connected.
The Couple’s Status at the End of 2017
By the end of the year, both confirmed they were officially back together. Brittany was once again appearing on Jax’s social media, and by all accounts, the couple seemed to be rebuilding their bond. Jax referenced Brittany as “the woman of my dreams” in several interviews, highlighting plans for the future despite many obstacles.
- Brittany, in an April 2018 interview, explained: “I’m so much happier now. Everything’s better.”
- While cautious, many friends noted an improvement in Jax’s attitude and commitment.
What Viewers Learned from Their Turbulent 2017
Jax and Brittany’s relationship in 2017 remains one of the most talked-about reality TV romances because it reflects both the excitement and downsides of public love. Their journey highlighted the challenges of forgiveness, the pull of public narrative, and the gritty reality beneath the glitz of television romance.
- Key Lessons:
- Redemption requires hard work, and repeating old patterns can sabotage even the strongest bonds.
- Audience involvement and scrutiny can intensify personal struggles behind closed doors.
- Rebuilding trust after betrayal is possible, but neither quick nor easy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Did Jax and Brittany break up in 2017?
A: Yes. After the cheating scandal, Jax broke up with Brittany, but the separation was brief, and they reconciled before the year ended.
Q: What was the cheating scandal about?
A: Jax admitted to cheating on Brittany with fellow SURver Faith Stowers, an event that caused a temporary split and much public fallout.
Q: Were they still together by the end of 2017?
A: According to both, yes. Post-show interviews confirmed their reconciliation.
Q: Why did Brittany stay with Jax after everything?
A: Brittany cited deep feelings of love, hope for change, her own values, and the hard work of rebuilding their relationship.
Q: What did their friends think?
A: Friends were split; some, like Stassi and Katie, encouraged Brittany to move on, while others supported her decision to give Jax another chance.
Further Reading: Lessons from Reality TV Romance
Jax and Brittany’s headline-making year offers insight into the complexities of love, public judgment, and personal growth. Their willingness to share both their joy and their darkest moments continues to captivate Vanderpump Rules viewers and spark conversations about what it means to truly forgive—and whether public relationships can really survive TV drama.
