Several prominent "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) cast members, past and present, have publicly battled addiction and mental health challenges. This article explores the journeys of some of these comedic stars, including Pete Davidson, John Mulaney, Chevy Chase, and Chris Farley, highlighting their struggles, rehab experiences, and the impact on their lives and careers.
Pete Davidson's Ongoing Journey with Mental Health and Addiction
Pete Davidson has been open about his struggles with borderline personality disorder and PTSD, seeking treatment in rehab multiple times. He first entered rehab in 2016 after experiencing mental health breakdowns, attributing them to heavy marijuana use. After a subsequent stint in 2018 following a concerning social media post, Davidson continues to navigate his mental health journey.
From left to right: Pete Davidson, Chris Farley, and Chevy Chase, all SNL alumni who have faced addiction issues. (Getty Images)
Pete Davidson during his nearly decade-long run on SNL. (Will Heath)
Davidson frequently used the "Weekend Update" segment as a platform for personal reflections. (Getty Images)
Davidson has publicly addressed his mental health struggles. (Said Zapat)
John Mulaney's Path to Sobriety
Former SNL writer and five-time host John Mulaney has openly discussed his struggles with alcohol and cocaine addiction, including his experience with intervention and rehab. He detailed his journey towards sobriety, from the moment of his intervention to his time in treatment and subsequent divorce from Anna Marie Tendler.
John Mulaney sought treatment for cocaine and alcohol addiction. (Rosalind O'Connor)
John Mulaney, the creative mind behind the iconic SNL character "Stefan," played by Bill Hader. (Will Heath)
Chevy Chase and Chris Farley: Different Paths, Shared Struggles
Chevy Chase, a foundational figure on SNL, faced addiction to prescription painkillers and alcohol, seeking treatment at the Betty Ford Clinic. Tragically, Chris Farley, another beloved SNL comedian, lost his life to a drug overdose in 1997 at the age of 33. His close friend and fellow cast member, Adam Sandler, later paid a moving tribute to Farley upon his return to host SNL.
Chevy Chase has sought treatment for addiction multiple times. (Tommaso Boddi)
Chris Farley, a comedic force on SNL, tragically passed away from a drug overdose. (Steve Granitz)
Adam Sandler and Chris Farley shared a close bond during their time on SNL. (Steve Granitz)
From left to right: David Spade, Chris Rock, and Chris Farley, part of a star-studded SNL cast. (KMazur)
From left to right: Rob Schneider, Tim Meadows, Chris Farley, and Adam Sandler in the classic SNL skit "Santa Don't Like Bad Boys." (Gene Page)
These stories highlight the complex and often challenging realities of addiction and mental health, even within the seemingly glamorous world of entertainment.
