AceShowbiz - Andrew Lloyd Webber, the celebrated composer and EGOT winner, recently shared insights into his battle with alcoholism and his ongoing path to sobriety in an interview with The Times published on April 18. At 78 years old, Andrew Lloyd Webber revealed that he began his current recovery journey over a year ago and described it as the best decision he has made for himself.

Despite prior attempts to quit drinking around 2015 and 2016 during the production of School of Rock on Broadway, he admitted that he relapsed and resumed drinking secretly. Andrew Lloyd Webber described this period as "white-knuckling" without support, which led him to worry about his creativity and the contradiction of telling others he was sober while secretly drinking again.

The composer, whose production Cats: The Jellicle Ball is currently running on Broadway, recounted how his family reached a desperate state about 18 months ago due to his drinking. His wife, in particular, felt overwhelmed by the situation. He also noted the surprise he felt realizing his drinking was not limited to wine, as he had believed, but extended to vodka, which he used to conceal his alcohol consumption.

Andrew Lloyd Webber acknowledged his good fortune in avoiding serious accidents, though he admitted to experiencing numerous close calls. He expressed regret by saying, "I thought that I was getting away with it. The thing is, I am deeply sorry and I can only apologize to people if I made a mess."

Regarding treatment, he revealed that entering rehab initially did not succeed, but joining Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings became a positive and transformative experience. Now attending meetings daily, Andrew Lloyd Webber described the AA environment as welcoming, emphasizing the equality among members and the friendships he has formed. This contrasted with his previous misconceptions that AA would be uncomfortable or filled with people from troubled backgrounds.

When asked about his creative output during his drinking periods, he admitted that while not much of his work was done under the influence, there were a few hit songs he wrote after having a glass of wine, which he considered acceptable at the time.

Looking ahead, Andrew Lloyd Webber is reportedly working on two new musicals. One project is an adaptation of the 2006 film The Illusionist, and the other centers on the infamous 1911 theft of the Mona Lisa painting, signaling continued creative endeavors despite his personal struggles.

Andrew Lloyd Webber's candid discussion about his recovery offers an intimate glimpse into the challenges faced by even the most accomplished artists. His openness about alcoholism and the benefits he’s found in AA may provide encouragement to others dealing with similar issues.

With his ongoing commitment to sobriety and his active engagement in new projects, Andrew Lloyd Webber demonstrates resilience and dedication to both his personal health and his artistic legacy.