English actor Kit Harington, renowned for his role as Jon Snow in the hit series ‘Game of Thrones’, has candidly discussed the toll his sudden fame took on his mental health. In a conversation on the wellness podcast ‘Hidden 20%’, reported by Deadline, Harington revealed his struggles with alcoholism and his journey through rehab, which led to a diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Harington recalled his state in 2019 when he first entered rehab. He described arriving intoxicated, sobering up during his stay, and initially rejecting group therapy. After a brief stint in a second rehab facility, where he learned about his ADHD, Harington attempted to tackle his issues alone, a strategy that proved ineffective over four years.
Now sober, Harington focuses on his family, including a two-year-old son and a six-month-old daughter, whom he shares with his wife and ‘Game of Thrones’ co-star, Rose Leslie. He spoke candidly about the challenges of maintaining focus, noting how his mind often races to various distractions.
The sudden celebrity status gained from ‘Game of Thrones’, which aired from 2011 to 2019, was a significant factor in Harington’s mental health struggles. He admitted to trying to maintain an image of sophistication and coolness, masking his genuine fear and anxiety. He also touched upon the perils of falling into the trap of scrutinizing public opinion, which can unearth negative as well as positive feedback.
In a related development, HBO is currently exploring a potential Jon Snow spin-off series, with Harington slated to reprise his iconic role. Deadline confirmed that the project is in the exploratory phase and, if realized, would follow the character’s life after the events of ‘Game of Thrones’.
Harington’s openness about his mental health journey sheds light on the often overlooked challenges faced by celebrities, particularly those thrust suddenly into the limelight. His story is a testament to the complexities of managing fame and personal wellbeing in the public eye.
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