Russell Brand told fans he was grateful to be 20 years sober in an emotional post on Instagram.
The comedian, 43, was addicted to crack, heroin and alcohol and was told by his former manager he'd 'end up in a prison or a graveyard' if he didn't get clean.
Thankfully, after spending months in rehab, Russell turned his life around and took to the social media platform paying tribute to those who have helped him on the road to recovery.
"I'm 20 years clean and sober today," he said, proudly in the video.
"It's December the 13th. So, firstly I wanted to express my gratitude for all the people who have helped me to remain clean and sober.
"What I have been taught and shown is that it is impossible for a person like me to not drink and use drugs, unless I have sufficient ongoing support from people that understand what it's like to feel that drugs or alcohol, or you know, certain behaviours, are necessary in order to feel okay."
The Get Him to the Greek star said recovery is only possible by 'awakening from the world of attachment', which he admitted remained an 'ongoing process'.
Russell, who previously asked MP's to change the laws on drugs, continued: "Because I still, every day at 20 years without crack and heroin, without alcohol, still feel strongly, a strong requirement - a strong requirement - to seek approval or connection or validation or pleasure or distraction from the outside world.
"There is a way back to dignity, there is a way back to behaving responsibly and caringly - those things are all possible."
The actor is married to Laura Gallacher, with whom he shares daughters Mabel, six and Peggy, four.
Explaining that life as a husband and father has changed him, he said: "I don't live in the reckless, dangerous, selfish way that I used to live."
Of course the road to recovery hasn't been easy for the star with Russell admitting sobriety was a challenge.
"The fact is that 20 years in, I still feel a lot of pain, I still find life very, very difficult, I find it difficult to confront the conditions of our world," he said.
Russell concluded his message suggesting the solution to overcoming addiction starts by believing it's possible to change and being open to a journey of 'self-discovery'.
The positive post was warmly received by fans, with one replying: "Thank you for being a light in darkened times."
While another wrote: "Wish this kind of commentary was mainstream and available when I was younger."
*Frank offers confidential advice about drugs and addiction (email frank@talktofrank.com, message 82111 or call 0300 123 6600) or the NHS has information about getting help
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