A Candid Confession from Brad Pitt

In a revealing conversation on the latest episode of the Armchair Expert podcast with Dax Shepard, Brad Pitt opened up about his battle with addiction, especially following the tumultuous end of his marriage to Angelina Jolie. The 61-year-old actor candidly discussed how he turned to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) to help confront his struggles with alcohol.

Hitting Rock Bottom

Recalling the aftermath of his divorce, Pitt described a period of intense personal crisis. "I was pretty much on my knees… I needed to wake the f*** up in some areas," he admitted. This difficult time prompted him to find help, leading him to AA, where he aimed to confront years of substance dependence.

Finding Support in Vulnerability

During his heartfelt dialogue with Shepard, who has openly shared his own journey with sobriety, Pitt expressed his initial fears about attending AA meetings. However, he soon discovered a powerful sense of community. "It gives you permission to go, 'OK, I'm gonna step out on this edge and see what happens,'" he recalled, highlighting how he learned to appreciate the group dynamics.

The Importance of Honest Conversations

Pitt praised Dax for his authenticity, calling him "so f****** honest" and considering him an "elder statesman" within the AA circles. He found immense value in hearing other men share their stories of vulnerabilities, flaws, and experiences, often interspersed with humor.

From Missouri Roots to Personal Growth

Reflecting on his upbringing in Missouri, Pitt noted the cultural expectation for men to project strength, which often stifled emotional expression. In previous interviews, he has described AA as a liberating environment, allowing him to confront and reveal the darker aspects of himself.

Beyond Alcohol: A Broader Struggle

Pitt acknowledged that alcohol wasn’t his only coping mechanism. He admitted that fame had led him to become a recluse at times, turning to substances to numb the overwhelming pressures of celebrity life. "In the '90s, all that attention really threw me," he revealed, reflecting on his past struggles.

Gratitude to Friends

In a 2020 speech, he credited Bradley Cooper for playing a crucial role in his journey towards sobriety, expressing gratitude for having "got sober" and noting, "every day has been happier ever since." This testimony to friendship highlights the importance of support systems in overcoming addiction.

Life Today: A New Chapter

Since his divorce from Jolie in 2016, with whom he shares six children, Pitt has begun a new chapter in his life. He is currently in a relationship with 34-year-old jewelry executive Ines de Ramon, living together in Los Angeles, while Jolie is believed to be single as they both navigate their lives post-marriage.

A Journey of Hope and Healing

Brad Pitt’s journey offers hope and inspiration to many facing similar battles. His honest reflections on addiction, personal growth, and the power of vulnerability showcase the strength it takes to confront one’s demons and emerge with a renewed sense of purpose.