4 Famous Recovering Alcoholics

Seeing Famous Recovering Alcoholics Thrive After Getting Treatment Can Serve as an Inspiration to Overcome Addiction

Matthew Perry

Fans of the iconic sitcom Friends might already know about Matthew Perry’s struggle with sobriety. Reports of Perry’s addiction came out at the height of the award-winning series’ run. He grappled with his addiction for years, a journey that landed him in inpatient facilities several times before he could kick the habit for good. Now, Perry stands out as one of the noblest celebrities in recovery, devoting his time and resources to helping others in similar predicaments. In an interview in 2013, he stated, “I’ve had a lot of ups and downs in my life and a lot of wonderful accolades, […] but the best thing about me is that if an alcoholic comes up to me and says, ‘Will you help me stop drinking?’ I will say, ‘Yes. I know how to do that.’ ”

Jamie Lee Curtis

Jamie Lee Curtis’s descent into addiction started after she had cosmetic surgery. Hers is a story we all know only too well. She was prescribed painkillers and was soon hooked. The alcohol abuse followed in short order. Curtis’s daughter was instrumental in getting the star to admit that she had a problem. After accepting help nearly 20 years ago, Curtis overcame her addiction and joined the ranks of famous recovering alcoholics and addicts who kicked the habit for good. Curtis frequently uses her story as a platform to urge the US government to implement effective change in dealing with addiction.

Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck’s burgeoning career almost imploded in the early 2000s, when reports of his rampant alcohol abuse received widespread media coverage. It took years to rehabilitate his public image, and while Affleck’s career continued to soar, his road to recovery has been tumultuous. As one of the most famous recovering alcoholics in Hollywood, every setback receives headlines worldwide. The Academy Award-winning director ran into trouble as early as this past year, when he sought and completed treatment for his alcohol use disorder. Affleck is a shining example that famous recovering alcoholics are only human. Like many other people and celebrities in recovery afflicted with his same condition, his struggle only reinforces that sobriety isn’t always linear.

Robert Downey Jr.

Robert Downey Jr. spiraled so out of control for the better part of the 90s as a result of his severe addictions to drugs and alcohol. After many rounds of legal troubles that landed him in jail several times, Robert Downey Jr. was finally able to get sober when his wife gave him an ultimatum. His journey involved 12-step programs, therapy, and meditation. As far as famous alcoholics making a career comeback go, Downey’s couldn’t have been any better. With the help of friends, he was able to get back on his feet and start working again. Soon, he was cast as the lead in the Iron Man franchise, one of the biggest blockbusters in the world.

You, Too, Can Get the Help You Need

As you can see, no two stories are alike. Whether they overcame their alcohol abuse in one try or if it took multiple attempts to get clean, all celebrities in recovery do an excellent public service by sharing their story. Battling addiction is never easy, especially if you don’t have the proper assistance. If you’re struggling with substance abuse, don’t hesitate to call Better Addiction Care at (800) 429-7690 to figure out a plan for you.