Brad Pitt is getting candid about one of the toughest periods in his life — his battle with alcohol and his road to recovery.
The Oscar-winning actor revealed on Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast that Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was a transformative part of his journey after Angelina Jolie filed for divorce in 2016.
“I was pretty much on my knees,” Pitt said. “It was just incredible. Men sharing their experiences… their missteps… and a lot of humor with it. It meant a lot to me.”
He explained that the support of the AA group and their openness helped him become more accountable and self-aware, even amid the risks of being a celebrity in such a vulnerable space.
“I am a stubborn f–k,” Pitt added. “But when I’ve messed up, I take responsibility.”
The actor’s turning point came after a now-infamous altercation involving alcohol on a private plane, which led to Jolie filing for divorce. Pitt told The New York Times in 2019 that he “removed [his] drinking privileges” shortly after.
His AA journey was also supported by Dax Shepard, who has been open about his own sobriety. Pitt noted that the group’s mix of raw honesty and humor became something he genuinely looked forward to.
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Celebrities Who’ve Faced Addiction and Turned to AA or Rehab
| Celebrity | Substance(s) | Details | Sober Since |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brad Pitt | Alcohol | Joined AA after 2016 divorce from Angelina Jolie | ~2016 |
| Jason Biggs | Alcohol, drugs | Celebrated one year sober in 2018 after years of hiding addiction | ~2017 |
| Ashlyn Harris | Adderall | Misused Adderall in college; credited reading and coaching support with saving her life | Unknown |
| Jax Taylor | Cocaine, Alcohol | Announced sobriety in 2025 after rehab, said substances went “hand in hand” | ~Jan 2025 |
| Tom Holland | Alcohol | Quit drinking in 2022 after recognizing addiction; noted major improvement in health and clarity | 2022 |
| Alec Baldwin | Cocaine, Alcohol | 39 years sober as of 2024; called his past use “white-hot” in intensity | Feb 1985 |
| Dax Shepard | Cocaine, Alcohol, Opiates | Long-time advocate for sobriety and host of Armchair Expert, often discusses addiction recovery | ~2004 (with relapses) |
| Anne Hathaway | Alcohol | Quietly gave up alcohol in 2019, citing motherhood and mental health | Oct 2018 |
Toglenn, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
If You’re Struggling with Alcohol or Substance Use
Brad Pitt’s story — like those of many other public figures — is a reminder that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but one of strength. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or substance use, support is available.
💬 Helpful Resources:
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): Offers free, peer-based support in local groups.
🌐 Visit: aa.org - SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) — a 24/7, free, and confidential treatment referral and information service.
- SMART Recovery: A science-based alternative to 12-step programs.
🌐 Visit: smartrecovery.org
You’re not alone — there are entire communities out there ready to walk with you through recovery.
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