Celebs Who Went To Rehab

As a lifelong movie fan, it’s always been fascinating – and sometimes heartbreaking – to see how many actors and public figures battle things like addiction and mental health issues, all while living under such intense scrutiny. It seems like a lot of them eventually realize they need help, and going to rehab is a pretty common path to getting their lives back on track. What I really admire is when they open up about their struggles. It takes a lot of courage, but it’s so important for breaking down the shame around getting professional help. Their experiences really show how tough fame can be, and that taking care of your health has to come first, even before work.

Robert Downey Jr.

The actor battled addiction, which led to legal troubles and time in prison. He later dedicated himself to long-term recovery, successfully turning his life around. This allowed him to revive his career, landing leading roles in films like ‘Iron Man’ and ‘Sherlock Holmes’. His journey is now widely recognized as a powerful story of personal and professional comeback within the entertainment world.

Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato first sought treatment in 2010 to work through personal struggles with both her physical and emotional well-being. She has publicly discussed her experiences with bipolar disorder and overcoming substance abuse. Since then, she’s continued to prioritize her mental health and long-term sobriety with additional treatment. Lovato openly shares her journey through documentaries and music, hoping to support others facing similar difficulties.

Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck has dealt with alcohol addiction for about twenty years, and has openly discussed the challenges of recovery and how much his family helps. He’s been to rehab several times – in 2001, and again in 2017 and 2018. Despite a demanding career as both an actor and director, he continues to prioritize his well-being.

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore famously went to rehab as a teenager, after growing up in the spotlight. She got help with substance use before becoming an adult and successfully built a lasting career as both an actress and businesswoman. Her difficult childhood gave her a realistic outlook that helped her deal with the challenges of Hollywood.

Matthew Perry

While starring in ‘Friends,’ Matthew Perry privately struggled with addiction for many years. He repeatedly sought help for problems with prescription drugs and alcohol. Later, he became a passionate supporter of recovery, even opening a sober living home to help others. He shared the full story of his battles and recovery process in his memoir.

Zac Efron

In 2013, Zac Efron privately entered rehab to deal with issues related to substance abuse. He took time between movies to get help and later shared that the experience helped him achieve a healthier lifestyle. Since then, Efron has continued acting while also focusing on fitness and creating travel documentaries.

Lindsay Lohan

Lindsay Lohan went to rehab several times in the mid-2000s, both as required by the courts and on her own. These programs aimed to help her deal with substance use issues and the constant attention of the paparazzi. Following her treatment, she moved abroad for a while to get a new outlook on life. More recently, she’s returned to acting and is prioritizing her career.

Britney Spears

In 2007, Britney Spears voluntarily checked into a treatment facility while facing intense public scrutiny and personal struggles. She was seeking support for her mental health and the pressures of being a global star. Over the years, she’s utilized professional help to maintain her well-being, and her fans have consistently supported her efforts to regain control of her life and health.

Elton John

In 1990, Elton John sought help for addiction to drugs and alcohol. He credits that decision with saving his life and enabling him to continue making music. Now sober for over thirty years, the iconic singer supports other artists facing similar challenges and often shares his journey to inspire them.

Keith Urban

I was really shocked when I heard that Keith Urban went to rehab shortly after marrying Nicole Kidman back in 2006. It’s amazing to me how he’s been able to stay sober ever since, and he always says Nicole and the treatment he got were key to his recovery. He’s still out there making music and touring, and he often talks about how much clearer his life is now that he’s living drug-free. It’s truly inspiring to see.

Nicole Richie

Nicole Richie dealt with substance abuse issues in the early 2000s, leading to legal problems. She successfully completed rehab, which helped her change her public image from a socialite. Since then, she’s become successful in fashion and TV, and now focuses on her family and her work as a designer, keeping her personal life private.

Charlie Sheen

For many years, Charlie Sheen has dealt with substance abuse, entering rehab multiple times. His battles with addiction received a lot of attention from the media, especially during his time on the show ‘Two and a Half Men’. While he’s had periods of being sober, he’s also experienced setbacks. He’s still focused on improving his health and continues to work on different projects in the entertainment industry.

Kelly Osbourne

Kelly Osbourne has openly discussed her battles with prescription drug addiction and her time in rehab. She believes both her family history and life experiences played a role in her struggles. Osbourne says rehab provided her with the support and strategies she needed to get better, and she now uses her public profile to raise awareness about mental health.

Bradley Cooper

Bradley Cooper decided to get sober when he was twenty-nine, before his career truly took off. He realized that using substances was holding him back and got help to stop. He’s been sober ever since and often talks about how it’s made him a better actor. He’s even said that his experience with addiction helped him understand his character in ‘A Star Is Born’.

Eva Mendes

In 2008, Eva Mendes sought treatment for personal challenges and to prioritize her health. Her team explained she was taking steps to improve her overall well-being. After completing the program, she refocused on her career. Since then, Mendes has shifted her priorities to business and family, and has largely avoided the Hollywood party lifestyle.

Gerard Butler

I was really surprised to learn that Gerard Butler went to treatment back in 2012. It turns out he became dependent on prescription painkillers after getting hurt while filming some of his action movies. Thankfully, he realized he had a problem pretty quickly and got help at a treatment facility. It’s great to see he’s prioritized his health and found safe ways to deal with pain ever since.

Daniel Radcliffe

After finishing the ‘Harry Potter’ films, Daniel Radcliffe recognized he was relying on alcohol to deal with the stress of fame and the end of such a huge chapter in his life, so he got help to stop drinking. He’s now been sober for more than ten years and enjoys a more relaxed life. He continues to act, choosing a variety of roles in theater and smaller, independent movies.

Selena Gomez

As a critic, I’ve always admired Selena Gomez, but beyond her talent, I’m deeply impressed by her honesty. She’s been incredibly open about her battles with lupus and the emotional toll chronic illness takes, and she’s sought help through wellness programs multiple times. What’s truly remarkable is how she’s turned her personal experiences into something positive – she uses her successful beauty brand to fund mental health initiatives. It’s inspiring to see her vulnerability resonate with so many young fans, encouraging them to prioritize their own well-being and seek the support they deserve. It’s a powerful example of using a platform for good.

Lana Del Rey

As a teenager, Lana Del Rey attended a residential program to address alcohol addiction, arranged by her parents who enrolled her in a boarding school with substance abuse support. These experiences have influenced the themes found in her music, and she has maintained sobriety throughout her career as a musician.

Mary-Kate Olsen

In 2004, Mary-Kate Olsen sought treatment for an eating disorder and its related health issues. As a former child star, she was facing a lot of public attention, and the program helped her cope with that pressure. After completing treatment, she transitioned from acting and found success in the fashion industry, where she’s now a well-regarded designer with her own high-end brand.

Jamie Lee Curtis

Jamie Lee Curtis privately battled an addiction to painkillers for ten years before getting help in 1999. She considers overcoming this addiction to be the most important thing she’s ever accomplished. Since then, she’s openly supported sobriety and often helps fellow entertainers who are also in recovery. Her enduring career in Hollywood is a source of hope and motivation for people in the recovery community.

Rob Lowe

In 1990, Rob Lowe sought treatment for alcohol abuse and to improve his public image. He’s been sober for more than thirty years and considers recovery a central part of who he is. Since then, he’s continued to thrive in his acting career, and he frequently offers guidance to others on living a healthy, fulfilling life.

John Stamos

In 2015, John Stamos received treatment for substance abuse following a DUI arrest. He’s said that going through recovery helped him grow as a person and as a father. Soon after, he returned to acting in ‘Fuller House,’ and he continues to openly discuss the importance of taking responsibility for your actions and prioritizing mental well-being.

Heather Locklear

Heather Locklear has received treatment on several occasions for anxiety and substance use. These visits to professional facilities were meant to help her recover in a supportive setting. Despite facing difficulties, the actress is dedicated to her ongoing health and well-being. Throughout her time in the public eye, she’s received consistent support from her family and fans.

Mischa Barton

After experiencing a lot of attention from her role on ‘The O.C.’, Mischa Barton decided to seek help for her mental health. She entered a treatment facility to cope with the pressures and personal challenges of being a young actress. Barton has since discussed how little support there was for young women in the entertainment industry at that time. She continues to act in independent films and television shows.

Steven Tyler

Throughout his career, Steven Tyler, the lead singer of Aerosmith, has openly dealt with struggles with drug and alcohol addiction. He’s faced setbacks and relapses, but has consistently worked to get back on track with his sobriety. In 2022, he sought treatment again after a foot injury triggered a relapse. Tyler continues to prioritize his health and recovery, and is grateful for the support of his fans.

Anthony Hopkins

I’m such a huge Anthony Hopkins fan, and I was really inspired to learn about his journey with sobriety. Back in 1975, he realized he needed to make a change for his health, and he decided to get sober. It’s amazing that he’s been sober for almost fifty years! He didn’t go to a traditional rehab center, but he did get help from support groups, which I think is really cool. And he’s so generous – he often shares encouraging messages online for anyone else trying to get sober too. It just shows what’s possible with determination and support.

Samuel L. Jackson

In the early 1990s, Samuel L. Jackson sought treatment for drug addiction and successfully completed a rehabilitation program. This happened right before he landed the role that launched his career in ‘Jungle Fever.’ He’s been sober ever since, and has gone on to become one of the most commercially successful actors of all time, attributing his continued sobriety to his ability to maintain such a busy and thriving career.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch quit drinking in her early thirties, before she became famous in Hollywood. She realized that alcohol was holding her back from achieving her career goals as an actress. Now sober for many years, she frequently shares her experiences in her autobiography. Since then, her career has thrived, with success in both comedic and dramatic roles, thanks to her focus on well-being.

Colin Farrell

After finishing the movie ‘Miami Vice’ in 2005, Colin Farrell sought treatment for substance use and to improve his overall lifestyle. He voluntarily returned to a treatment facility in 2018 to help maintain his progress. Farrell has often spoken about how becoming a father and achieving sobriety have given him a new outlook on life. He continues to be praised for his performances in films.

Kirstie Alley

Early in her career, Kirstie Alley successfully battled a cocaine addiction with the help of a treatment program. She often said the program was key to her recovery, happening before she became famous. Throughout her long career in the public eye, she continued to promote health and wellness, frequently emphasizing the role of self-discipline in staying healthy.

Tom Hardy

In 2003, Tom Hardy sought treatment for drug and alcohol addiction. He’s openly discussed hitting rock bottom and choosing to turn his life around. Since completing rehab, he’s maintained his sobriety and become well-known for his dedication to physically transforming for roles. He continues to be a highly regarded actor of his generation.

Sia

Sia has publicly shared her experiences with overcoming addiction to alcohol and prescription drugs. She received treatment and has been committed to recovery for a long time. As a singer and songwriter, she frequently uses her voice to raise awareness about mental health and the benefits of a sober lifestyle. She’s achieved significant success in music while prioritizing her well-being and privacy.

Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran stepped away from his career to address personal struggles with substance use and mental health. He recognized the constant demands of touring were negatively impacting his well-being. During his break, he prioritized getting healthy and focusing on his personal life. Now, he’s back, approaching his work and fame with a healthier balance.

Demi Moore

I’ve always admired Demi Moore, and I was so impressed by her strength when she openly sought help in 2012. She bravely checked into a treatment facility to deal with exhaustion and some health challenges she was facing. It was a tough time for her personally, but she didn’t shy away from getting the support she needed. I especially loved reading her incredibly honest memoir about her journey to becoming well and rebuilding her life. It’s inspiring to see her still thriving in Hollywood while making her health a priority – she’s a true role model.

Michael Phelps

After a second DUI arrest in 2014, Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps sought treatment, where he focused on his mental health and the challenges of being a professional athlete. Since then, he’s become a strong voice for mental health awareness and encourages others to seek therapy. Phelps believes the program helped him discover who he was beyond his swimming career.

Tiger Woods

Tiger Woods has twice gone to treatment – in 2010 and 2017 – to deal with personal struggles and reliance on medication. These programs helped him cope with the pressures of fame and ongoing pain from golf injuries. Woods has publicly discussed the difficulty of getting better and the effort needed to stay healthy and balanced. Despite these challenges, he continues to compete successfully while prioritizing his long-term well-being.

Scott Disick

Scott Disick has gone to rehab multiple times to deal with substance use and the pain of loss, issues often shown on ‘Keeping Up with the Kardashians’. He’s still working with professionals to improve his health and be a good father. He’s also spoken about how hard it is to stay sober when you’re in the public eye.

Kim Richards

Kim Richards has publicly battled alcohol addiction throughout her time on TV, notably while appearing on ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’. She’s openly shared her struggles and progress with viewers, experiencing both challenges and successes in her journey to get sober. Throughout it all, her family has consistently provided unwavering support during her treatment and recovery.

Luann de Lesseps

After a public legal issue in 2017, Luann de Lesseps sought treatment at a rehabilitation facility. She went back for further support in 2018 to continue her progress. Since then, the reality TV star has openly shared her experiences through her cabaret performances and speaking engagements, and remains committed to promoting health and wellness among her friends and followers.

Whitney Houston

Throughout her incredibly successful career, Whitney Houston bravely sought help for drug addiction on several occasions. She went to treatment centers to cope with the enormous stress that came with being a world-famous star. Despite very public struggles, she openly shared her hope for recovery and well-being. Her life highlights how difficult it can be to deal with both addiction and the pressures of fame.

Amy Winehouse

Amy Winehouse battled addiction throughout her career, frequently entering rehab for treatment. Her personal struggles were well-documented by the media and deeply influenced her music. Despite her short life, she became a beloved and celebrated artist, and her health issues resonated with fans around the world.

David Hasselhoff

David Hasselhoff has gotten help for alcohol addiction several times, and his family has been a strong source of support throughout his journey to stay sober. He’s openly shared the challenges and successes he’s experienced in recovery. Despite these struggles, he continues to work on television and in music while prioritizing his health and well-being.

Melanie Griffith

Melanie Griffith has gone to rehab several times to deal with problems with alcohol and prescription pain medication. She first got treatment in 1988 and voluntarily returned in 2009. Griffith has often emphasized how important it is to be open about personal challenges to avoid falling back into unhealthy patterns. She remains optimistic about both her well-being and her work as an actress.

Mickey Rourke

When Mickey Rourke’s career hit a rough patch, he got help with his personal life and mental well-being. He credits the structure of his recovery process with helping him successfully return to acting. Rourke has spoken about how learning discipline was key to rebuilding his career and staying focused on his work, making him a distinctive presence in Hollywood.

Carrie Fisher

Carrie Fisher openly talked about her struggles with mental health and addiction, sharing her experiences after getting treatment. Known for her sharp wit, she discussed her bipolar disorder and substance use in her books and performances. Her willingness to be honest helped others feel less isolated in their own battles with mental health and addiction.

Ozzy Osbourne

As a lifelong music fan, I’ve always admired Ozzy Osbourne’s talent, but I also know he’s battled addiction for years. He’s been really honest about how his past lifestyle affected his family and his health, which I respect. It’s inspiring to see he’s managed to get and stay sober for significant stretches, thanks to rehab and, from what I understand, the incredible support of his wife, Sharon. Even now, he’s still out there performing and sharing his story, which is pretty amazing.

Courtney Love

Courtney Love has openly discussed her struggles with substance use and mental health, and has sought help through various treatment programs. Despite these challenges, she’s continued to work as a musician and actress, prioritizing her recovery and remaining involved in the arts. Her strength and perseverance have been widely admired, particularly within the rock music scene.

Mike Tyson

After retiring from boxing, Mike Tyson dealt with addiction and mental health challenges. He believes rehab was crucial in helping him create a calmer, more balanced life. Since then, he’s found success in entertainment and business, and he frequently shares his past difficulties to encourage others to get the support they need.

Please share your thoughts on these recovery stories in the comments.

2026-02-18 23:23