Dr. William Duncan Silkworth (July 22, 1873 – March 22, 1951) was an American physician celebrated for his groundbreaking work in treating alcoholism. Here’s a detailed look at his life and legacy: Born in Brooklyn, NY, Silkworth was the eldest of three siblings He earned his BA from Princeton University in 1896 and completed his MD at Bellevue Hospital Medical College … Dr. William D Silkworth
W.C. Fields was a heavy drinker and his alcoholism was well-known. He often incorporated his drinking habits into his stage persona, playing a character known for being a cruel drunk. His heavy drinking was a contributing factor to his distinctive red nose and blotchy face, which he used to enhance his comedic character. He died a lonely alcoholic death … W C Fields
Brad Pitt has openly discussed his struggles with alcohol in the past. In a 2017 GQ interview, he revealed that he had been drinking heavily for years but decided to get sober after his separation from Angelina Jolie. Pitt later shared in a 2019 New York Times interview that he attended Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and … Brad Pitt
Gig Young, the American actor, died by suicide on October 19, 1978, at the age of 64. He fatally shot himself and his fifth wife, Kim Schmidt, in their New York City apartment. The incident occurred just three weeks after they were married. Authorities ruled it a murder-suicide, but the motive remains unclear. Young had … Gig Young
Scott Weiland American musician, singer and songwriter Accidental overdose of cocaine, alcohol, and methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) Illegal drugs and alcohol 2015 48
Anna Nicole Smith died on February 8, 2007, from an accidental drug overdose. She was found unresponsive in her hotel room at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida. Cause of Death: The official cause was combined drug intoxication, primarily from prescription medications. The autopsy report revealed that she had taken a … Anna Nicole Smith
Dolores O’Riordan, the lead singer of The Cranberries, died on January 15, 2018. Her death was ruled as accidental drowning due to alcohol intoxication. She was found in her hotel room at the Hilton London on Park Lane. The coroner’s report indicated that her blood alcohol level was more than four times the legal limit … Dolores O’Riordan
Betty Ford made a profound impact on addiction recovery through her advocacy and the founding of the Betty Ford Center, one of the most well-known substance abuse treatment facilities in the U.S. Her contributions include: Betty Ford’s legacy continues through the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, which remains a leader in addiction treatment and education. Her … Betty Ford
Janis Joplin, the iconic rock and blues singer, tragically passed away on October 4, 1970, at the age of 27. She was found in her hotel room in Los Angeles, and her death was ruled an accidental overdose of heroin, compounded by alcohol. Joplin’s powerful voice and electrifying stage presence left a lasting legacy in … Janice Joplin
Bon Scott, the legendary frontman of AC/DC, struggled with alcoholism
We often associate S.U.D. with visible suffering or social decline, but it frequently exists behind polished facades. Some of the world’s most celebrated artists, thinkers, and leaders have battled substance use, proving that intellect and talent offer no immunity. Similarly, people from loving families or stable upbringings can still develop S.U.D., showing that it’s not always about trauma or poor choices. By understanding S.U.D. as a medical condition rather than a moral failing, we can break the stigma and open the door to compassion and healing for everyone—regardless of who they are.