The media loves to give attention to the glamorous lives of celebrities. And one storyline that’s often featured in tabloids and news headlines is when stars go on benders, go through relapses or announce their sobriety. Proudly sober celebrities might be rare, but they do exist. And it can help the public to look at stars with drinking problems who have turned sober. Since their lives are often on display, we get an insight into how they handled their substance abuse addiction and overcame hardships. This can be inspirational for the average person who is dealing with their own addiction.
10 Sober Celebrities
1. Lucy Hale
Actress Lucy Hale began her career at the young age of 15 when she was cast as a main character in Pretty Little Liars. The actress has noted that growing up in Los Angeles made her lose herself as she tried to fit in. She partied and drank alcohol to overcome social anxiety. Now, the 28-year-old has given priority to a quiet and sober life so she can discover who she really is.
2. Eminem
Eminem is one of many sober musicians who are vocal about their past battles with addiction. He previously was addicted to drugs, including prescription painkillers. After making the choice to get sober, Eminem also took up running and lost a significant amount of weight in his journey to becoming a healthier person.
3. Ewan McGregor
Scottish actor Ewan McGregor has been sober since 2001. He had a history of drinking from an early age and became a “functioning alcoholic” by his own definition. Initially, he tried to get sober with the help of a therapist but then transitioned to Alcoholics Anonymous and found that suited him more. McGregor openly talks about his sobriety in the hopes it will help others recognize their own battles with addiction.
4. Daniel Radcliffe
Unfortunately, celebrities with drinking problems often get a huge spotlight in newspaper headlines as people watch them spiral out of control. Daniel Radcliffe, known famously for playing Harry Potter, grew up at the center of media attention. In fact, the media covered whenever he would make mistakes, such as being 18 and drunk on a movie set. All the pressure and attention ended up being a heavy burden to bear, and Radcliffe struggled with alcoholism for several years. He made the decision to quit in 2010 when he realized his consumption was excessive and unhealthy.
5. Zac Efron
Another famous actor driven to drinking from media attention was Zac Efron. The High School Musical star couldn’t take the constant presence of media cameras everywhere he went. Eventually, Efron turned to drugs and alcohol to cope and ended up in rehab in 2013. He has been sober for many years now and prioritizes his health above all else.
6. Bradley Cooper
Famous actor Bradley Cooper has a lot in common with his character in A Star is Born. At the age of 29, Cooper realized his drug and alcohol use had become a problem. He understood that if he didn’t stop, it would “sabotage his whole life” and ruin his career. Cooper chooses to live a sober life to live up to his full potential.
7. Ben Affleck
Ben Affleck has starred in dozens of hit films over several decades. What only came out in recent years was the addiction Affleck was battling over the many years of his fame. In a 2020 interview with the New York Times, Ben Affleck admits that it took him “many years to admit to myself … that I’m an alcoholic.” Affleck has had many public stints in rehab (2001, 2017, 2018) and relapses but is committed to his sobriety now more than ever.
8. Kristin Davis
While many people on this list state their work and fame as sources for their addiction, the opposite is true for Kristin Davis. She had to go to rehab for alcohol addiction at the age of 22 and, at the time, didn’t think she would live past 30 years of age. She credits her work as Charlotte on the hit series Sex and the City as the inspiration for her to get better and stay sober.
9. Kat Von D
Celebrity tattoo artist and entrepreneur Kat Von D is celebrating 13 years sober from drugs and alcohol. She recalls how difficult it was to get sober, the painful withdrawal symptoms and the feelings of loneliness. She has seen continued success in her career since getting sober and looks to help friends who are going through similar struggles.
10. James Franco
Actor James Franco is proud that he’s been sober since he was 29. In his youth he struggled with depression, which caused him to turn to drugs and alcohol to cope. Today, he chooses to avoid any mind-altering substances so he can function at his optimal capabilities.
Getting Help
It’s crucial to understand celebrities often have access to more expensive and exclusive levels of care. However, they also face stressors that are different than yours or mine. Stars can’t go to the grocery store or step outside their homes without being harassed by paparazzi and criticized for their appearance or actions.
This is not to diminish your struggles and experiences. Every individual has challenges they need to overcome. Addiction is a brain disorder that can have devastating effects if left untreated. It’s essential to understand that addiction is a disease and isn’t a choice. That’s why it’s crucial to get professional help from experts who understand the disease and how to treat it.
If you struggle with addiction, know that you can overcome it with dedication and live a better life. Get inspiration from the exclusive group of sober celebrities and live a sober lifestyle too. They’ve gotten sober despite the whole world watching them, and they’re better off for it. You never see a celebrity discuss how they miss their addiction because no one does. A sober life can allow you to live up to your full potential and improve your quality of life.
FHE Health
At FHE Health, we specialize in getting individuals the help they need, whether for addiction, mental health concerns or both. We offer a wide variety of addiction treatment programs that fit everyone’s needs. You’ll be given the tools you need for a healthy recovery that promotes long-term wellness. Contact us today to find out more by calling (833) 596-3502.
