Joshua Bassett, the star of *High School Musical: The Musical: The Series*, has recently opened up about his battle with addiction to ketamine following a life-threatening health scare in 2021. In a candid interview on the Zack Sang Show and in his memoir, *Rookie: My Public, Private, and Secret Life*, the 25-year-old actor revealed how he turned to the drug as a means of coping with intense emotional pain and isolation.
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During the podcast discussion, Bassett recounted that after experiencing a near-death incident, his reliance on substances escalated. He stated, “I’d use whatever was the most effective in that moment at sort of putting me at ease.” This admission highlights the extent of his struggle, as he confessed to consuming “six baggies of ketamine” nightly and often “downing a whole bag in one whiff”. Such practices set the stage for a perilous trajectory into addiction.
Bassett’s struggle with addiction unfolded parallel to turmoil in his personal life, notably following the release of Olivia Rodrigo’s hit song “driver’s license,” which fans speculated pertained to their relationship. The emotional strain from the public scrutiny coupled with his newfound fame exacerbated his feelings of isolation. He explained, “Addiction thrives through isolation,” suggesting that his circumstances created a perfect storm for his substance use.
The 2021 health crisis, which involved septic shock and heart failure, served as a pivotal turning point for Bassett. Doctors reportedly informed him that he had only a 30 per cent chance of survival, advising that had he delayed his hospital visit by just 12 hours, he may not have survived. During this frightening ordeal, he found himself preoccupied with survival rather than the aftermath of his fame or his impending loneliness.
“You know, it’s a miracle I’m here for sure,” Bassett acknowledged during his interview, reflecting on the severity of his addiction and health struggles. He admitted that the thrill of drug use often dissipated, leading him to a “dopamine deficit” that required a greater dose to achieve the same effect, a cycle that can trap many into dependency.
In discussing the ways he managed to conceal his addiction, Bassett credited his acting skills as both a blessing and a curse. He emphasised how adept he was at pretending to be fine while grappling internally with torment. “I was pretty good at hiding it,” he remarked, illustrating the complexities of living a dual life as a performer and an individual confronting significant personal battles.
Bassett’s memoir aims to shed light on these darker experiences and the pressures of fame. He noted that many who are close to him may not be aware of the extent of his struggles, adding an additional layer to the weight of his revelations. “There’s a lot of people don’t know, and a lot my family doesn’t even know that’s in there,” he stated, expressing hope that sharing his story may foster understanding and healing for both himself and his audience.
As he navigates his recovery journey, Bassett encourages those facing similar challenges to seek help. He reinforces the importance of addressing substance use and mental health openly, highlighting that such discussions can lead to healing and new perspectives. He urged individuals to reach out if they are struggling, drawing attention to available resources for support in his community.
In an era where more celebrities are coming forward regarding their battles with addiction and mental health, Bassett’s revelations serve as a reminder of the often-hidden struggles beneath the allure of stardom. His story underlines the critical need for awareness, understanding, and support for those grappling with the effects of fame, addiction, and personal turmoil.