Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Aug 4: Johnny Lever, Bollywood’s legendary comedian, recently bared his soul about his tumultuous past, revealing a battle with alcoholism that nearly derailed his life during the peak of his career. In a heartfelt conversation on comedian Sapan Verma’s YouTube channel, joined by his daughter Jamie Lever, the 68-year-old actor opened up about the highs and lows of fame, his punishing work schedule, and the personal toll it took.
Lever’s rise to stardom was meteoric. Starting at just 17, he became a household name within six years, with his comedy CDs resonating not only in India but also abroad, particularly in the US. His infectious humour made him a staple in Bollywood, with no major film complete without his presence. Yet behind the laughter, Lever was grappling with exhaustion and addiction. “I was shooting films all day and performing shows at night,” he shared. “The fatigue was overwhelming. I turned to heavy drinking, sometimes till 4 am at Mumbai’s Chowpatty beach. I was a drunkard, completely drained, sitting backstage like I was lifeless.”
Despite his struggles, Lever’s commitment to his craft never wavered. “I never let my exhaustion or drinking affect my work,” he said proudly. “I gave my all on stage, but afterward, I had nothing left.” His nights at Chowpatty were often interrupted by local police, who, recognizing the star, would chuckle and say, “Arre, Johnny bhai!” Instead of reprimanding him, they would let him continue drinking safely in their patrol car—a testament to his charm, even in his lowest moments.
The comedian’s relentless schedule of filming, live performances, and international tours took a heavy toll on his personal life. “Success can mess with your mind,” Lever admitted. “I was everywhere—movies, global shows, traveling nonstop. I lost myself in it.” His excessive drinking strained his family relationships, particularly with his wife, who fought tirelessly to pull him back from the brink. “I drank one and a half bottles at a time,” he confessed in an earlier video shared by actor Dharmendra. “It made my wife furious, hurt my kids, and disappointed my parents. I was living in a hell of my own making, full of regrets.”
The turning point came when Lever resolved to quit alcohol and smoking entirely. “It was one of the hardest things I have ever done,” he said. “The rainy season made the cravings unbearable, but I turned to God and Jesus for strength.” Through sheer willpower and faith, Lever overcame his addiction and has remained sober for 24 years. Reflecting on his journey, he issued a heartfelt warning: “I urge everyone—drink in moderation, if at all. Crossing that line is not worth the pain it brings.”
Lever’s professionalism remained unshaken throughout his struggles. “I never performed under the influence,” he emphasized. “That is something I am proud of.” His resilience shines through in his recent role in Housefull 5, where he continues to captivate audiences with his comedic brilliance.
Johnny Lever’s story is one of redemption—a reminder that even at the height of fame, personal battles can be fought and won with determination and support. As he continues to entertain, his journey serves as an inspiration to many.