In a recent episode of The Jonathan Ross Show, Robbie Williams opened up about his past struggles with addiction, revealing that Elton John played a significant role in helping him overcome his demons. The transcript of the interview sheds light on the turbulent period of Williams’ life and the profound impact Elton John had on his journey to sobriety.
Williams admitted that there were times when he couldn’t even remember significant moments of his career due to his altered reality experiences. Whether he was drunk, high, or sober, everything seemed to happen in a blur. He described the chaotic pace of his life, constantly traveling from one country to another and attending prestigious events without fully being present.
One particular incident Williams mentioned was attending a party at Bono’s house while under the influence of magic mushrooms. He was in awe of a painting in the room, thinking it was the most incredible artwork he had ever seen. To his surprise, Bono revealed that it was just a window. This anecdote highlights the confusion and disconnection Williams felt during this period of his life.
Fortunately, Williams eventually realized he needed to make a change, especially now that he is a father. Elton John, who had been sober for many years, played a crucial role in Williams’ decision to seek help. Before Williams went to rehab, Elton John invited him to his home to listen to the work he had done that morning. Williams, who had already consumed several pints of beer, arrived at Elton’s house in a disheveled state.
Elton John, seeing the condition Williams was in, urged him to go to rehab immediately. Williams initially resisted, insisting he would go the following week as planned. However, Elton John was relentless, insisting that Williams couldn’t afford to wait. Despite Williams’ attempts to charm his way out of the situation, Elton John and his partner, David Furnish, along with a doctor and a psychiatrist, arrived the next day to bring him to a detox center.
Williams found himself in a detox center reminiscent of scenes from “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.” Determined to escape, he tried to make a break for it, but was stopped and held until his psychiatrist was called to release him. Eventually, Williams recorded his songs “Let Me Entertain You” and “Angels,” and then finally entered rehab a few days later.
While Williams did admit that he had not been sober ever since rehab, it is evident that this experience was pivotal in his journey towards leading a healthier and more fulfilling life. Mired in the chaos of addiction, Williams found solace in the support and intervention of Elton John, who, as a fellow musician, understood the struggles of fame and fortune all too well.
The interview on The Jonathan Ross Show serves as a reminder that behind the glamour and success lies a profound human struggle that even the biggest celebrities face. With Elton John‘s help, Robbie Williams was able to confront his addiction and take control of his life, ultimately finding the strength to overcome his challenges.
