Hollywood has seen many stars succumb to their vices. We’re going behind the scenes of 35 celebrities whose struggles with addiction and personal demons derailed their careers – and sometimes their lives.
35. Richard Burton
Richard Burton was known for his legendary drinking habits, which began at a young age. His alcohol consumption was so extreme during the filming of “The Night of the Iguana” that it became a spectacle. Sadly, his addiction led to his untimely death at 58 from a cerebral hemorrhage, a fate hastened by years of heavy drinking.
34. Spencer Tracy
Spencer Tracy, one of Hollywood’s most charming leading men, had a dark side. His addiction to whiskey was so severe that MGM created a “Tracy Squad” to keep him safe during his binges. Tracy’s struggles with alcohol ultimately overshadowed his remarkable talent and led to a tragic decline.
33. Clara Bow
Clara Bow, the original “It Girl,” embraced her fame with a wild lifestyle filled with drinking and gambling. Known for her shocking behavior, she once introduced herself to a judge with a French kiss, leaving Hollywood insiders astounded. Her reckless lifestyle contributed to her decline and eventual obscurity.
32. Natalie Wood
Natalie Wood’s wild child persona began early, as she started drinking wine with Frank Sinatra at just 15. Her adventures grew more daring, culminating in a bizarre incident involving a champagne bath that ended in pain. Wood’s struggles with addiction were a constant battle throughout her life.
31. Martin Sheen
Martin Sheen’s performance in “Apocalypse Now” is iconic, but his offscreen struggles with alcohol were equally intense. He admitted to being dangerously drunk during filming, which led to a serious injury. Sheen’s journey through addiction has been one of recovery and redemption.
30. Carrie Fisher
Carrie Fisher, beloved for her role as Princess Leia, was open about her battles with addiction. Her candid discussions about mental illness and substance abuse made her an icon for many. Fisher’s legacy continues to inspire others to confront their struggles with honesty.
29. Anthony Hopkins
Anthony Hopkins, renowned for his role as Hannibal Lecter, faced significant personal challenges with alcoholism. After reaching a breaking point in the mid-1970s, he sought help and has been sober since 1975, turning his life around and becoming a beacon of hope for others.
28. W.C. Fields
W.C. Fields was known for his comedic genius, but his offscreen life was marred by alcoholism. His obsession with drinking led to a career filled with erratic behavior and poor health. Fields’ legacy is a reminder of the fine line between genius and addiction.
27. Veronica Lake
Veronica Lake, famous for her femme fatale roles, saw her career decline due to her drinking. Her struggles with alcohol led to severe health issues, and she died alone, a tragic end for a once-celebrated star.
26. William Holden
William Holden, a talented actor, battled alcohol addiction throughout his life. Despite his success, his drinking took a toll on his health and career, leading to a tragic end in his apartment after a fall while intoxicated.
25. Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe’s tragic death at 36 was attributed to an overdose of barbiturates. Her struggles with addiction were well-documented, and her legacy continues to spark discussions about mental health and substance abuse in Hollywood.
24. Larry Hagman
Larry Hagman, known for his roles in “Dallas” and “I Dream of Jeannie,” faced severe health issues due to decades of drinking. After a liver transplant, he got sober but ultimately succumbed to cancer, a reminder of the long-term effects of addiction.
23. Errol Flynn
Errol Flynn, the swashbuckling star, was notorious for his heavy drinking and gambling. His offscreen life was as adventurous as his film roles, but his addiction ultimately led to a tumultuous and tragic existence.
22. Peter Cook
Peter Cook, a comedic genius, struggled with severe liver damage from years of drinking. His legacy as a pioneer in comedy is overshadowed by his battles with addiction, which ultimately led to his early death.
21. John Belushi
John Belushi’s life was a whirlwind of fame and addiction. His untimely death from a drug overdose at 33 shocked the world, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of substance abuse in the entertainment industry.
20. Freddie Prinze
Freddie Prinze rose to fame quickly but struggled with depression and drug addiction. His tragic suicide at 22 highlighted the pressures faced by young stars in Hollywood and the importance of mental health awareness.
19. Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, battled addiction to prescription painkillers for years. His untimely death at 42 was a stark reminder of the toll that substance abuse can take on even the most iconic figures.
18. Judy Garland
Judy Garland’s struggles with addiction began early in her career, as she was prescribed amphetamines to keep up with the demands of Hollywood. Her tragic death from a barbiturate overdose at 47 underscores the dark side of fame.
17. Lenny Bruce
Lenny Bruce, a groundbreaking comedian, faced severe drug addiction that ultimately led to his death from a morphine overdose. His legacy as a free speech advocate is marred by his struggles with addiction.
16. David Cassidy
David Cassidy, a teen idol from “The Partridge Family,” battled alcoholism for years. His struggles culminated in liver and kidney failure, a tragic end for a star who once captivated audiences.
15. Margaux Hemingway
Margaux Hemingway, the granddaughter of Ernest Hemingway, struggled with addiction after becoming a supermodel. Her tragic overdose at 42 serves as a reminder of the pressures faced by those in the public eye.
14. Peter Lorre
Peter Lorre’s career was marred by addiction to morphine, which began after a medical procedure. His struggles with substance abuse impacted his work and personal life, leaving a lasting mark on Hollywood.
13. Lupe Velez
Lupe Velez, known for her wild behavior, was infamous for her public outbursts and tumultuous relationships. Her struggles with addiction and erratic behavior ultimately led to her tragic end.
12. Greta Garbo
Greta Garbo, a reclusive star, became obsessed with extreme diets that affected her health. Her struggles with food and mental health highlight the pressures faced by Hollywood stars.
11. Todd Bridges
Todd Bridges, a child star from “Different Strokes,” faced addiction and legal troubles after the show’s success. His journey through recovery serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges.
10. Barbara Payton
Barbara Payton’s promising career was derailed by addiction, leading to legal troubles and her untimely death. Her story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of substance abuse in Hollywood.
9. Cary Grant
Cary Grant struggled with addiction to LSD, which he used as a form of therapy. His journey through mental health challenges highlights the complexities of fame and personal struggles.
8. Natalie Cole
Natalie Cole, daughter of Nat King Cole, faced addiction in her early career, leading to financial struggles. Her story emphasizes the importance of recovery and resilience in the face of adversity.
7. Hugh Hefner
Hugh Hefner, the founder of Playboy, was known for his extravagant lifestyle and gambling habits. His impact on American culture is undeniable, but his personal struggles with addiction were also significant.
6. Frank Sinatra
Frank Sinatra, a legendary performer, had a well-documented love for gambling. His high-stakes lifestyle often intersected with his personal struggles, making him a complex figure in Hollywood history.
5. Clark Gable
Clark Gable, the King of Hollywood, was known for his gambling habits. His lifestyle reflected the excesses of Hollywood during his era, showcasing the fine line between success and addiction.
4. Samuel L. Jackson
Samuel L. Jackson has been open about his struggles with drug abuse. His journey to recovery, supported by his family, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking help.
3. Chris Farley
Chris Farley, a beloved comedian, struggled with addiction throughout his life. His tragic death from an overdose at 33 highlights the dangers of substance abuse in the entertainment industry.
2. Bruce Lee
Bruce Lee, a martial arts legend, battled a secret drug habit that ultimately contributed to his early death. His story serves as a reminder of the hidden struggles many face, even in the spotlight.
1. Walter Matthau
Walter Matthau, known for his comedic roles, was also an avid gambler. His struggles with gambling addiction impacted his life, showcasing the complexities of fame and personal demons.
