The Valley star Brittany Cartwright recently opened up about her 3-year-old son Cruz, revealing he has been diagnosed with autism and is mostly nonverbal. Cartwright, who shares Cruz with ex-partner Jax Taylor, spoke candidly with People about her son’s developmental journey and the emotional moments that have come with it.
In a heartfelt recollection, Cartwright described a moment earlier this year that left her overwhelmed with emotion. “He was in his car seat, and out of nowhere, he said, ‘Mommy, I want to get out,’ plain as day,” she said. “I could have cried. Hearing him speak a full sentence was heartbreaking in the most beautiful way.”
Cruz’s speech delays were noticeable in season one of Bravo’s The Valley, with Cartwright and Taylor’s concern for their son featured prominently. While season two—set to premiere April 15—continues documenting their journey, Cruz’s official diagnosis came after filming had wrapped.
“On the show, it’s clear he’s nonverbal,” Cartwright explained. “I wanted to be the one to share this, not have people on social media guessing. My son is autistic, and he’s incredible. I’m his voice now. I’m his warrior now.”
Since the diagnosis, Cartwright has been learning to navigate the new reality of parenting a child with autism. “It’s a whole new life for me,” she said. “None of my close friends nearby have kids on the spectrum, so it’s hard sometimes not having someone who truly understands. Everyone’s supportive, of course—but there are so many layers to this that most people just can’t see.”
Despite the challenges, Cartwright remains devoted and resilient, committed to being the strongest advocate for her son’s needs and growth.
