Successful recovery from substance use disorders is challenging for anyone. Despite all of his worldly successes in the entertainment industry, actor and director Bradley Cooper continues to put his sobriety first. On an episode of Running Wild with Bear Grylls: The Challenge, Cooper told the host that he feels very fortunate to be sober. Indeed, Bradley Cooper believes that finding a path to successful recovery made him a better actor and man.

As eNews and Deadline Hollywood reported, Cooper passionately states, “I was lucky. I got sober at 29 years old, and I’ve been sober for 19 years. I’ve been very lucky.”

In 2004, Cooper recalled going to a Hollywood party with SNL comedian Will Arnett. He never thought he had a problem with substance use disorders (SUD) until Arnett commented on his cocaine use. Hence, he realized that the brakes were off whenever he did not get a part or something went wrong. From comments from his friend, Cooper admitted that he was using drugs and alcohol to escape life’s pressures.

Successful Recovery Means a Sober Lifestyle

Embracing a sober lifestyle became the key to Bradley Cooper’s future success. Although known as a dashing leading man, he also is a talented actor. By dedicating himself to his craft, Cooper was able to grow leaps and bounds. Indeed, he does not believe he would have taken on the challenge of starring in and directing A Star Is Born if he was not sober.

The SUD Treatment staff at Tarzana Treatment Centers (TTC) is unsurprised that success and recovery went together so well. Over the years, we have seen many patients find their true path once they leave the drugs and alcohol behind. Indeed, recovery from substance use disorders and drug abuse often is the first step to success. Once a patient proves to themselves that sobriety is a viable option, then it seems that anything becomes possible.

A Star Is Born = The Work of a Successful Recovery.

Bradley Cooper explains that he never could have starred in and directed A Star Is Born without his successful recovery. Given the extremity of the main character, particularly in regards to drug abuse and drinking, playing that role meant going to a dark place. However, Cooper came to understand that his recovery allowed him to access those feelings.

In the show, Cooper illuminates this challenge to Bear Grylls. As he says in a revealing fashion, “It made it easier to be able to really enter in there. And thank goodness I was at a place in my life where I was at ease with all of that, so I could really let myself go. I’ve been very lucky with the roles I’ve had to play. It’s been a real blessing. I hope I get to keep doing it.”

A Celebration of a Successful Recovery

Upon hearing his story, TTC celebrates Bradley Cooper’s successful recovery. His dedication to staying sober and being of service equals a path to creative freedom. Indeed, if you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder, please do not hesitate to contact us. As Bradley Cooper and so many others have shown, there is a path to a successful recovery.