In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Vanderpump Rules stars Brittany Cartwright and Jax Taylor opened up about the reasons behind their recent separation after four years of marriage. The couple, who exclusively spoke to PEOPLE at the premiere of their new Bravo show "The Valley," revealed that their decision to separate was not a publicity stunt.

Cartwright, 35, explained that she is currently living in an Airbnb with their 2-year-old son Cruz, emphasizing that her priority is providing the best environment for their child. She expressed her breaking point, stating that she needed to step away from the situation as it was neither healthy nor ideal for their son. Cartwright revealed that she is taking this time to focus on herself and has found some relief in the space.

Contrary to any assumptions that the separation announcement was for the show's sake, Cartwright clarified that her commitment has always been to family and marriage. She asserted that this was a genuine decision made for her own well-being, expressing her deep-rooted values regarding the importance of family.

Taylor, 45, added that the couple had been facing challenges for a while and believed that taking a break was in the best interest of their family. He assured that the couple was still in contact and continued working together on their businesses, highlighting that their daily routines had not drastically changed, apart from not sharing the same bed.

The couple, who first crossed paths at a Las Vegas bar in 2015, had a brief split in 2017 but later reconciled and got engaged in June 2018. Their engagement was documented on the show, and the following year, they tied the knot in a lavish ceremony at the Kentucky Castle in June 2019. In April 2021, they welcomed their son Cruz Michael Cauchi.

While the future of their relationship remains uncertain, both Cartwright and Taylor expressed that they were taking this separation seriously and not approaching it as a publicity stunt. The new Bravo show they premiered, "The Valley," is expected to shed light on the challenges their relationship has been facing for some time.

As fans eagerly await updates on the couple's journey, it is clear that their decision to separate was made with their child's well-being in mind and the hope of finding a healthier path forward.