The Valley is going to look very different in Season 3 after Jax Taylor’s unexpected announcement that he would be leaving to focus on his health and sobriety. It is no secret that the show needed to make some changes ahead of the new season because of the breakdown in the relationships between its cast: Taylor and his ex-wife, Brittany Cartwright, are going through a bitter divorce, and Jesse Lally and Michelle Lally are not on good terms either. But was this the change the cast and fans wanted?

And, perhaps even more importantly, did the cast have any idea that Taylor was going to make his exit before the news became public? A source has previously told People how the cast were “blindsided” by Taylor’s news, and this includes Cartwright.

Brittany Cartwright Discusses Jax Taylor’s ‘The Valley’ Exit

On an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen on July 22, Cartwright discussed Taylor leaving The Valley after Season 2. She revealed she “found out the night before” Taylor made his statement. Her reaction? “And I was like, that was a great decision. By everyone.”

She also made no secret of the status of their relationship, describing it as “horrible” and adding that there is “no trust whatsoever.”

As for the rest of the cast, how did they learn of the news? “They were not given any advance notifications about his exit. Most of the cast were notified that filming was going to begin at the end of the summer, and they expected Jax would be a part of the new season because — even as lately as yesterday — he hadn’t said otherwise. This is a huge surprise,” a source told People of the cast’s reaction.

Cohen also commented on Taylor’s exit in an interview with People. “I think it’s a good decision,” he said. “I think he needs to work out s*** without cameras around.”

Cohen also shared a positive insight, noting how Taylor was seeking help. “This comes up at the reunion — I have kind of a serious conversation with him about his need for control and his anger issues, and what it’s going to take to get to a better place with Brittany and in the world,” Cohen shared. “And I hope he takes the time to lean into this, away from the cameras.”

What Did Jax Taylor Say About His Exit?

Taylor made a short statement on July 16 that identified his priorities in the future and how he would be “stepping away” from reality TV. He did this “after an incredibly challenging year and many honest conversations with my team and producers.”

His statement, shared with Variety, continued: “Right now, my focus needs to be on my sobriety, my mental health, and co-parenting relationship. Taking this time is necessary for me to become the best version of myself — especially for our son, Cruz.”

Fans expected to see new faces injected into the mix, or perhaps for a few current cast members on The Valley to be replaced. Still, very few fans anticipated it would be Taylor who would be replaced, given that he is arguably one of the biggest stars of the show. And yet, here we are!