Andrew Lloyd Webber Shares Candid Account of Alcoholism Recovery
The renowned composer Andrew Lloyd Webber, creator of iconic musicals like The Phantom of the Opera and Jesus Christ Superstar, has publicly revealed that he is a recovering alcoholic. In a recent interview, the 78-year-old impresario disclosed that he attends Alcoholics Anonymous meetings every single day, regardless of whether he is at his homes in London, Hampshire, or New York.
The Struggle with Secret Drinking and a Family in Crisis
Lloyd Webber first announced he had stopped drinking back in 2016, a decision that led him to sell much of his prestigious wine collection, including cases of Château Pétrus 1982 valued at £50,000 each. However, he confessed that after 18 months of sobriety, he began drinking again in secret. "I was doing what they call 'white-knuckling', without any backup, and I started to worry that I wasn't being creative," he told The Times.
The composer described how his drinking habit spiraled out of control, leading to a desperate situation for his family about 18 months ago. "My wife was feeling she couldn't go on," he revealed, acknowledging that while he thought his drinking was a secret, "Everybody knows."
Sobriety as a Transformative Experience
Lloyd Webber said he realized he needed help last year and has since embraced sobriety as "the best thing that ever happened to me." He expressed surprise at how much he enjoys attending AA meetings, noting, "You go into a room and everybody's equal. I've made friends that I wouldn't have thought possible."
Beyond personal growth, the composer has discovered renewed creativity without alcohol. He is currently writing two new musicals: one based on the 2006 film The Illusionist and another about the 1911 theft of the Mona Lisa. This productivity marks a significant positive shift in his professional life.
Charitable Auction and Family Health Updates
In a symbolic move, Lloyd Webber plans to auction the remainder of his wine collection at Christie's between 22 April and 6 May. The estimated £300,000 raised will be donated to the Music in Secondary Schools Trust, supporting music education for young people.
This revelation comes shortly after his younger brother, cellist Julian Lloyd Webber, announced he is undergoing treatment for prostate cancer. Julian, who recently returned to live performances after a 12-year absence due to injury, has expressed optimism about making a full recovery and intends to keep all his engagements.
Support Resources for Alcohol Addiction
For those affected by alcohol addiction, support is available through the national alcohol helpline Drinkline at 0300 123 1110 or via the NHS website. Additional organizations offering assistance include Action on Addiction, Mind, and the Mental Health Foundation.
