Behind the heartthrob smile and iconic ’80s roles in films like Pretty in Pink and St. Elmo’s Fire, this Hollywood star was quietly battling alcohol addiction at the height of his fame.
Though adored as a teen idol, he later revealed that he often showed up to filming hungover and used drinking as a way to cope with anxiety and pressure.
In 1989, he quit alcohol, briefly relapsed, and eventually reached a breaking point that led him to seek rehab and commit to sobriety.
Since then, he has rebuilt his life as an actor, director, and writer, stepping away from Hollywood chaos and focusing on family, creativity, and personal growth.
His transformation from troubled ’80s heartthrob to grounded storyteller is nothing short of remarkable — and his name is Andrew McCarthy.