Actor John Goodman, known for roles in The Big Lebowski, The Flintstones, and Raising Arizona, has battled alcoholism and depression for much of his life. He described his addiction as so powerful that “nothing on God’s green Earth” could stop him from drinking if he wanted to. Goodman drank heavily for over 30 years, which worsened his depression, memory, and temperament—deeply affecting his career. At his lowest, he called himself a “walking heart attack.”
Even after quitting drinking in 2007, he had nightmares about relapsing. His alcoholism was partly fueled by the constant anxiety of unemployment in the acting world. He admitted drinking and drugs only amplified that stress. He also struggled with depression, calling it a “chemical thing” that left him feeling uninterested in life.
Despite these challenges, Goodman found stability with the support of his wife, Anna Beth Hartzog, and a renewed love for theater. Now 70, he continues to work—and stay sober—while sharing his story to help others.