Matt Willis reflects on addiction struggles during 'Life Of Bryony' podcast

Matt Willis, the 41-year-old Busted singer, has revealed his battles with addiction and feelings of inadequacy in an emotional conversation on the Life Of Bryony podcast with Bryony Gordon, released Monday.

According to Daily Mail, Willis shared how he turned to drugs and alcohol to cope with persistent feelings of being “less than” in most situations.

Moreover, the singer rose to fame at just 19, a period he described as overwhelming and isolating, leading him to lean on substances for confidence and connection.

He stated, “It gave me everything I didn’t have — confidence, the ability to talk to people, to girls, to adults.”

Despite early success, his addiction spiraled, leading to three stints in rehab before the age of 25, as per the publication. 

Additionally, he faced a relapse in 2017 during the Busted reunion tour, shortly after the birth of his youngest daughter, Trixie.

In this regard, Willis recalled, “I was doing six grams of cocaine on my own every day and not coming home until three in the morning.”

Furthermore, Willis credited another recovering addict for helping him turn his life around, describing a pivotal moment when he realized recovery required daily effort as he said, “You have to address it every day, but it’s worth it.”

During recent years, Willis has opened up about the toll his addiction took on his family, including his wife, The Voice presenter Emma Willis, as per the outlet. 

In regards to this, he admitted to “gaslighting” her during his struggles, saying it was difficult to witness the lingering fear she carried of his potential relapse.

It is worth mentioning that now sober, Willis hopes his story can inspire others as he shared, “Life is pretty awesome right now, and that’s achievable for people.”