Brad Pitts Journey Through Alcoholics Anonymous: A Post-Divorce Reboot

Brad Pitt, the Oscar-winning actor known for his role in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, recently shared more of his experience relying on Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) following his divorce from Angelina Jolie. In an interview on the latest Armchair Expert podcast episode, Pitt spoke about how the private recovery group helped him through a difficult time. Pitt recalled that he was "pretty much on my knees" and "trying anything and everyone" after the split from Jolie in 2016. He needed a "reboot" and to "wake up" in some areas of his life. He said that attending AA meetings was a "special experience" for him, and he appreciated the openness of the men he met there who were willing to share their experiences and struggles. Pitt previously explained his decision to go sober following the breakdown of his marriage to The New York Times in 2019, stating that he had "taken things as far as I could take it" and "removed my drinking privileges." He continued to attend AA meetings for a year and a half after the divorce, expressing his admiration for the men he met and their willingness to speak openly about their experiences. However, Pitt later revealed that he was reprimanded after being too open about being part of the AA group. He shared that he was admonished by someone of higher up at AA for revealing too much about his experience in an interview with The New York Times. Despite this, he still deeply appreciated the experience and acknowledged that he was "pretty good at taking responsibility for it and owning up to it." The couple, who were married since 2014 and romantically involved since 2006, share six children. Their divorce was not finalized until December 2024 after an eight-year court battle largely over custody of their children and their shared French winery. If you or someone you know is suffering from drug addiction, you can seek confidential help and support 24-7 from Frank by calling 0300 123 6600, texting 82111, sending an email, or visiting their website. In the US, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP.