Hollywood's Addiction Narrative: The Influence of AA in Film and TV
After 80 years of AA- non stop propaganda there are some 95 % of those who go who fail, die or kill themselves by AA standards. Where did all the love and light go?
Ever wondered why so many Hollywood films and TV shows seem to have a soft spot for Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)? In this episode of 'Safe Recovery', the host takes a fascinating look at how AA has been portrayed on the big and small screens over the past 80 years. From classics like 'The Lost Weekend' and 'The Days of Wine and Roses' to modern hits like 'A Star is Born' and 'Euphoria', Hollywood's love affair with AA is undeniable.
But why does this narrative persist, especially when AA's success rate is so low? The episode dives into the intriguing history of AA's influence in Hollywood, starting with Marty Mann, the first successful woman in AA, who had deep connections in the marketing and advertising world. With her lover Priscilla working at Vogue, Mann was well-placed to mingle with high society and the wealthy elite, making significant connections for AA co-founder Bill Wilson.
These relationships helped cement AA's presence in Hollywood. However, the episode doesn't shy away from questioning this long-standing relationship. With a critical eye, it examines why Hollywood continues to push AA despite its low success rates. The host also explores alternative healing approaches, such as psilocybin journeys, which have shown promise in treating depression and addiction.
You'll hear about successful Hollywood figures like Bradley Cooper and Billy Bob Thornton who have embraced sobriety, but the discussion goes beyond just individual stories. It challenges listeners to reconsider the dominant narrative and think about other paths to recovery that don't involve the traditional 12-step program. If you're curious about how media shapes our perceptions of addiction and recovery, or if you're looking for alternative approaches to healing, this episode offers plenty of food for thought.
Tune in to get a fresh perspective on Hollywood's portrayal of AA and discover new ways to think about recovery.