Gary Oldman Says He’d ‘Either Be Dead or Institutionalized’ If He Hadn’t Gotten Sober 28 Years Ago

Gary Oldman, the renowned actor, recently opened up about his journey to sobriety, highlighting that he believes he would have met a grim fate if he hadn’t made the decision to get sober 28 years ago. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the 67-year-old star delved into his past struggles with alcohol abuse, acknowledging that his journey to sobriety has had a profound impact on various facets of his life, including his successful career. Oldman candidly expressed, “I’m in a very good place at the moment, and a lot of that is to do with sobriety.”

Reflecting on his earlier years, Oldman admitted that he used to romanticize and look up to individuals who were immersed in alcohol and drug use, viewing them as heroes in various fields such as literature, film, and music. However, the actor clarified that his descent into alcoholism was not driven by a desire to mirror the lifestyles of these troubled figures. Rather, he attributed his struggles with alcohol to societal norms and peer influence that eventually spiraled out of control. Oldman shared, “It was a social norm, and at some point it got out of control.”

Furthermore, Oldman disclosed that he would glamorize stories of renowned personalities like Richard Burton, who famously performed while under the influence, mistaking their erratic behaviour for adding an edge to their artistry. However, through his own journey to sobriety, he came to realise that his life significantly improved without alcohol clouding his judgement. He emphasised that his decision to stay sober not only benefitted his personal life but also enhanced his work as an actor.

Throughout the interview, the acclaimed actor reiterated his gratitude for the positive changes sobriety has brought into his life. He acknowledged that his past struggles with alcoholism were intense, revealing details of how alcohol had seeped into every aspect of his existence. Oldman’s candid introspection shed light on the grim reality of his addiction, describing how his dependence on alcohol had turned into a pervasive force that overshadowed his daily routine and impacted his physical health.

As a seasoned performer in the entertainment industry, Oldman highlighted how his sobriety played a crucial role in shaping his approach to his craft. He recounted his role in the Golden Globe-nominated film “Mank,” where he portrayed an alcoholic screenwriter, and drew parallels between his personal battle with alcoholism and the character’s struggles. The actor’s willingness to share his struggles with addiction and the impact of his journey to sobriety serves as a testament to his resilience and commitment to leading a healthier lifestyle.

In conclusion, Gary Oldman’s candid revelations about his 28-year journey to sobriety offer a poignant reminder of the transformative power of overcoming addiction. His story serves as an inspiration to many facing similar challenges, showcasing that with determination and support, it is possible to break free from the grips of substance abuse. Oldman’s unwavering commitment to sobriety reflects not only his personal strength but also his dedication to living a fulfilling and healthy life in the face of adversity.