Nick Kroll Recalls Organizing John Mulaney’s 2020 Intervention: ‘I Was So Deeply Scared That He Was Gonna Die’

Nick Kroll Recalls Organising John Mulaney’s Intervention in 2020​

Comedian Nick Kroll recently opened up about his role in organising an intervention for his friend, fellow comedian John Mulaney, in 2020. Mulaney, who had been struggling with addiction for decades, checked into rehab in December 2020 following a relapse. Kroll, along with other friends, played a crucial part in staging the intervention that led Mulaney to seek treatment for his addiction.

Speaking on the Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard podcast, Kroll shared the challenges he faced in coordinating the intervention while being physically apart from Mulaney due to the pandemic. The stress of bringing people together, including college friends, for the intervention was immense. Kroll’s wife, Lily Kwong, was also heavily pregnant at that time, adding to the complexity of the situation.

The experience of organising the intervention gave Kroll a deeper insight into their friendship dynamics. It made him reflect on past interactions with Mulaney and understand the reasons behind certain behaviours. Despite the emotional toll of the intervention, Kroll expressed both empathy and frustration towards Mulaney for not being truthful about his struggles.

Kroll recalled a poignant phone call with Mulaney where emotions ran high, and fears for his friend’s life were expressed. This moment was a turning point that led to the intervention taking place. Following Mulaney’s stint in rehab and his return to stand-up comedy, including a Netflix special where he addressed his experience, tensions lingered between the two friends.

However, Kroll acknowledged the unique qualities that make Mulaney a captivating performer. He praised Mulaney’s ability to channel his personal struggles into his comedy, giving audiences a glimpse into his authentic self. This raw honesty and vulnerability are what set Mulaney apart in the comedy world, according to Kroll.

The intervention and its aftermath brought the friends closer together, paving the way for honest conversations and a deeper understanding of each other. Kroll emphasised the importance of support and communication in times of crisis, highlighting the impact a strong friendship can have on one’s journey to recovery.

Reflecting on the experience, Kroll shared his admiration for Mulaney’s resilience and courage in facing his addiction openly. He commended Mulaney for his willingness to share his struggles with the public, turning his challenges into sources of inspiration for others battling similar issues.

If you or someone you know is grappling with substance abuse, resources like the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-662-HELP are available to provide support and guidance. It is essential to seek help and support when dealing with addiction, and there is no shame in reaching out for assistance during difficult times.

In conclusion, Nick Kroll’s account of organising John Mulaney’s intervention sheds light on the complexities of addiction, friendship, and the power of support in overcoming challenges. The story serves as a reminder of the strength found in genuine connections and the transformative impact of standing by loved ones in their darkest hours.