Celebrities are easy targets for predator journalists who are out for the next big scoop. While some write features on celebs that show them in a positive light, others are looking for something more juicy, sensational, and scandalous. Unfortunately for several celebs, they end up as fodder for these journalists especially if they get caught in an affair, a run-in with the law, and substance abuse.
Why do celebrities fall into drug addiction?
The truth of the matter is anyone can easily fall into drug addiction given enough motivation, reason, and influence. One of the downsides of living life as a celebrity their high-profile jobs give them all sorts of access to lots of parties and shady people. Often, celebs fall into substance abuse because they are overwhelmed with the fast-paced life their job entails and the pressures of staying at the top of their game.
While not all celebrities become victims of drug abuse, those who do have faced such dire consequences that have affected their careers and personal lives. And while some of these ended up as tragic stories, others stand out as a beacon of light with their inspiring stories of overcoming their darkest challenges.
7 Celebs Who Have Fought and Won Against Drug Addiction
Here are some of the most notable celebrities who have fallen victims to substance abuse, received professional addiction treatment, overcame bad habits, and eventually, rebuilt their lives and careers:
1. Samuel L. Jackson
The highest-grossing actor of all time would not be here today if it weren’t for his wife and daughter. Samuel L. Jackson struggled with drug abuse in the ‘80s and was forcibly put in rehab by his own family. Their encouragement and support helped him stay sober and became his motivation to stay away from drugs since 1991.
2. Jamie Lee Curtis
Jamie Lee Curtis was a huge star in the ‘80s and ‘90s. At the height of her fame, she struggled with alcohol and drug addiction. Her addiction to painkillers started after she had a cosmetic procedure done. The treatment program she entered and the loving support of those around her is what she believes helped her recover and get a new start in life. She is now a well-known advocate against drug misuse.
3. Drew Barrymore
Drew Barrymore shot into stardom at the early age of 6 with her role in E.T. Having come from a famous yet troubled acting family, she struggled with alcohol at age 9 and then eventually moved on to cocaine and marijuana. She openly admitted her addiction at 13 years old and spent most of her teenage years battling her inner demons. She is now enjoying a clean life as an actress and producer.
4. Matthew Perry
Matthew Perry’s role as Chandler in the hit sitcom Friends brought so many unforgettable moments in the show. But audiences also remember his struggles with alcohol and prescription drug abuse. He sought treatment after he realized that he was already in a pretty bad spot and might not wake up the following day. He has since been clean and sober and was able to rejoin his fellow Friends cast for the long-awaited reunion.
5. Elton John
Sir Elton John has long regretted spending most of the ‘80s hooked on drugs and alcohol. It was only until the death of his close friend, AIDS activist Ryan White, that he decided to clean up his act and get sober. He sought help for his addiction and established the Elton John AIDS Foundation to honor his pal.
6. Bradley Cooper
Bradley Cooper may be a celebrated leading man in Hollywood now but his rise to stardom wasn’t easy. He plowed his way through different challenges earlier in his career, especially with drugs and alcohol that threatened to destroy his life. He has since overcome these challenges and went on to be a solid bankable Hollywood star.
7. Robert Downey, Jr.
Perhaps one of the most successful and inspiring stories of overcoming addictions is RDJ’s story. How he successfully rebuilt his life and career, big thanks to his role as Tony Stark/Iron Man, amid his very public struggle with drugs and high-profile run-ins with the law has made his victory such an awe-inspiring one
The powerful and moving testimonies of celebrities and famous personalities about their struggles with different types of addiction and substance abuse aren’t just meant to inspire those who are struggling that it is possible to win, but a fair warning for everyone that becoming an alcoholic and drug addict is not worth risking the good life waiting for you.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with substance abuse, help is available. Reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration through their website or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
