Addiction can touch the lives of anyone, even those in the spotlight. Bradley Cooper, a celebrated actor, openly shares his struggles with addiction, emphasizing how grateful he is to still be here today.

In a recent episode of the show Running Wild With Bear Grylls: The Challenge, Cooper, an Oscar nominee, candidly discussed his battle with alcohol and drugs. Surprisingly, these challenges had plagued him for a decade prior to his breakout role in The Hangover. However, he considers himself fortunate to have overcome the pitfalls that often accompany fame.

Cooper, now the star of Maestro, reflected on a difficult period in his life during an episode of the Smartless podcast. It was in 2004, when a friend visited him and noticed the neglect of his dogs, that he realized he had hit rock bottom. This wake-up call prompted him to make a significant change.

During this time, Cooper felt lost and dejected, particularly after leaving the TV show Alias, which had eroded his self-esteem. However, he persevered and made the courageous decision to become sober at the age of 29. Remarkably, he has remained on this path for an impressive 19 years.

The journey was not easy, but it has had a profound impact on Cooper’s life and career. In his portrayal of Jackson Maine in A Star is Born (2018), he drew from his own experiences as a recovering addict, allowing him to fully immerse himself in the character.

Achieving and maintaining sobriety for nearly two decades is an extraordinary feat. Bradley Cooper’s resilience and determination deserve our utmost admiration. His story serves as an inspiration to anyone facing their own battles, reminding us all that there is always hope for a brighter future.