A friend of television presenter Davina McCall has revealed how she locked her in a car to help her overcome drug and alcohol addictions. Davina, now 58, has been sober for more than three decades after battling serious substance abuse in her 20s.
Turning Point in a Car
Author Sarah Hiscox first met Davina at a house party when both were in their 20s. She said she 'loved her instantly' but became increasingly worried about Davina's drug use. Matters came to a head when Sarah locked Davina in her car in a last-ditch attempt to change her lifestyle.
Sarah told The Times: 'I locked her in my car one night. When I challenged her, she crumbled immediately. "I know, I know," she was crying. "I'm scared." She said she kept making deals with herself to only use drugs on certain days but it turned into every night.'
Path to Sobriety
Davina could not afford rehab or therapy at the time, so Sarah suggested she attend Narcotics Anonymous meetings. Davina agreed to go the following day and has been sober ever since. Sarah recalled: 'I suggested: "You're bound to know lots of people there, so you won't be alone. Knowing you, you'll end up loving it!"'
Career Transformation
Getting clean had a huge impact on Davina's career. She transitioned into television, securing her first role on MTV Europe. In 2000, she became the host of Big Brother, catapulting her to fame. Her credits since include The Masked Singer, The Million Pound Drop, and Long Lost Family.
Davina has spoken openly about her past. On The Diary of a CEO podcast, she admitted she remains 'vigilant' to guard against falling back into addiction.
