This week, we are tipping our hats to acting legend Jamie Lee Curtis. As the headliner in America’s number one movie (the spooky remake of Halloween), she could most certainly use this moment to tout her next movie, her side projects or what have you. But instead, Ms. Curtis is taking this publicity and addressing America’s opioid crisis.
In several interviews, the 60-year-old acting icon has been touting her sobriety and the importance of supporting people who are battling addictions. Curtis explained that her issues began back in the late 1980’s and were painkiller related; just like the crisis that is impacting America now.
“I was ahead of the curve of the opiate epidemic,” Curtis told PEOPLE Magazine. “I had a 10-year run, stealing, conniving. No one knew. No one.”
Honest as ever, she explained that her dependency began after a minor plastic surgery. Following an eye lift in 1989, Jamie Lee began over indulging in opioids; a habit that lasted up until the late 1990’s.
Curtis went on to say that addiction is a “family disease” in her household. The daughter of two prominent actors, her father, Tony Curtis, openly abused alcohol, cocaine and heroin. Jamie Lee’s half-brother, Nicholas Curtis, died from a overdose in 1994.
Through the encouragement of her husband, sister and children, Jamie Lee did ultimately enter a treatment program. 20 years later, she says it is one her proudest personal accomplishments.
“I’m breaking the cycle that has basically destroyed the lives of generations in my family,” Curtis continued. “Getting sober remains my single greatest accomplishment… bigger than my husband, bigger than both of my children and bigger than any work, success, failure. Anything.”
To this day, Curtis regularly attends recovery meetings and continues to counsel other people who are dealing with addictions. She also praised her close circle of family and friends for staying by her side through thick and thin.
We are hopeful that Jamie Lee’s story goes on to inspire others. Though, on the surface, she appears to be a glamorous actress who has it all, Curtis sets a good example that addictions can happen to anyone. She is also reaching millions of people with the Halloween press junket; promoting the movie, while also spreading the message of recovery.
You can watch Jamie Lee discuss her sobriety journey in more detail below, via a television interview with Australia’s The Feed.
