In honor of Addiction Recovery month and the upcoming Addicted to Comedy shows in Austin on Friday September 24th, 2010 being put on in part by the Promises P.A.T.H here is a list of comedians who have recovered from their addiction to drugs, alcohol and other substances.
Robin Williams
Robin Williams has appeared in more than 40 feature films; Robin Williams has played nearly every role imaginable. He famously voiced the Genie in the animated hit Aladdin, as well as Oscar nominated roles for his portrayal of an English teacher in Dead Poets Society and a homeless man in The Fisher King. Robin’s alleged drug addiction dated back to the late 1970s and early 1980s when Williams was reportedly addicted to cocaine. Robin cited the tragic death of his friend John Belushi and the birth of his son as major factors that prompted him to quit. In August of 2006 it was reported that Robin Williams checked himself into rehab to deal his addiction to alcoholism after over 20 years of sobriety. Since then Robin Williams has been active in animated films such as the upcoming Happy Feet 2 and has reportedly expressed interest in playing the Riddler in the next Batman movie.
Russell Brand
Russell Brand has been a controversial figure since being reportedly fired by MTV for allegedly coming to work dressed as Osama Bin Laden the day after the September 11th attacks and for reportedly bringing his drug dealer to the MTV studios. Russell Brand has allegedly struggled with addictions to heroine and alcoholism in addition to a reportedly dealing with a sexual addiction. Russell Brand has become a patron for the addiction charity Focus 12 since abstaining from drug use since 2002. It is reported that Russell regularly attends AA and NA meetings. As of December 2009 he is purportedly engaged to singer Katy Perry In 2010 he appeared in the movie Get Him to the Greek and as has appeared alongside Robin Williams in the 2010 version of 3 Lions.
Craig Ferguson
Craig Ferguson began his comedy career in the 1980s after a stint of playing drums for the punk band Dreamboys. Craig most famously portrayed Dr.Carey’s boss Mr. Wick. It has been reported that Craig struggled for years with alcoholism, until gaining sobriety in February 1992. Craig is currently the host of the Late Late Show.
Tracy Morgan
Tracy Morgan began his career on the TV sitcom Martin, playing the character Hustle Man. In 1996 he joined the cast of Saturday Night Live where he was a regular member until 2003. Tracy Morgan’s alleged struggles with alcohol addiction have included reported arrests for DUI in both California and New York in addition to having to wear a SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring) ankle bracelet for nearly 150 days. Tracy has gone on to be nominated for an Emmy and reportedly stated and the 2009 Emmys that he had been sober for more than a year.
Richard Lewis
Richard Lewis began performing stand in the 1970s. During the 1980s his fame grew from appearances on Late Night with David Letterman and his HBO specials. In 2001 he appeared on the Howard Stern radio show to promote his book The Other Great Depression which reportedly dealt with his recovery from alcoholism. In recent years Richard’s had roles on the HBO sitcom Curb Your Enthusiasm and Everybody Hates Chris. Richard Lewis is also purportedly the originator of the phrase “the __________ from hell.”
Personalized Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation Program
Promises P.A.T.H is a residential treatment center with programs that begin with a minimum of 35 to 90 days. We are committed to creating a uniquely adapted treatment episode for each guest. The treatment plan will meet the physical, mental, emotional, family and spiritual needs of the individual. It will equip them with the necessary tools to conquer their addictions and live a healthy sober life. Our drug and alcohol rehabilitation program has three primary components: a comprehensive assessment, a personalized treatment plan, and one year of recovery coaching after completing the program.