Andrew Lloyd Webber Reveals He's a Recovering Alcoholic After Years of Secret Drinking

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Andrew Lloyd Webber, the renowned composer behind hit musicals like Cats and Phantom of the Opera, has revealed that he is a recovering alcoholic. In a candid interview, the 78-year-old shared that he had briefly stopped drinking in 2015 while working on School of Rock, but then continued to drink in secret for nearly 10 more years, fearing that alcohol was part of his creative process. Lloyd Webber said his drinking spiraled about 18 months ago, leaving his family in a 'desperate state.' He has since sought help through Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, which he credits with changing his life.

Why it matters

Lloyd Webber's revelation about his long-term struggle with alcoholism sheds light on the challenges faced by high-profile creatives and public figures who may feel pressure to maintain a certain image. His story highlights the importance of seeking support and not trying to 'white-knuckle' sobriety alone. As someone at the top of his field, Lloyd Webber's openness about his recovery could inspire others dealing with substance abuse issues to prioritize their health and wellbeing.

The details

According to the interview, Lloyd Webber initially stopped drinking in 2015 while working on the Broadway production of School of Rock. However, he said he didn't establish the proper support systems to guide him through the process, and he soon began secretly drinking again out of fear that alcohol was tied to his creative abilities. Lloyd Webber said his drinking spiraled about 18 months ago, leaving his family 'in a desperate state.' He first checked himself into a rehabilitation clinic, but that didn't work for him. He then tried his first Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, which he described as life-changing. Now, Lloyd Webber attends an AA meeting every single day, regardless of his location. He also wears two leather bracelets on his wrist - one inscribed with the name of his late son, Nick, who died of stomach cancer in 2023, and another containing a silver link from his four surviving children, as a reminder to stay sober.

• In 2015, Lloyd Webber briefly stopped drinking while producing School of Rock on Broadway.
• About 18 months ago, Lloyd Webber's drinking spiraled, leaving his family 'in a desperate state'.
• 16 months ago, Lloyd Webber decided he needed help and began attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Lloyd Webber continues to attend daily Alcoholics Anonymous meetings as he maintains his sobriety and focuses on his prolific creative output, including the recent opening of his new show 'Cats: The Jellicle Ball' and work on two additional new musicals.