Tim Matheson's Narrow Escape from Cocaine Addiction

Tim Matheson, known for his iconic role in the cult classic "Animal House," recently opened up about his narrow escape from the clutches of cocaine addiction in a candid interview with Page Six. The actor shared insights from his new memoir, "Damn Glad to Meet You," cleverly named after a famous line from his character in the film.

A Conscious Choice Amidst the Party Scene

In his discussion, Matheson emphasized that while he enjoyed the party scene, he was always acutely aware of the potential consequences of drug use on his career. Unlike some of his contemporaries who achieved immense stardom, Matheson lived paycheck to paycheck during his early years in Hollywood. This precarious situation instilled a sense of responsibility in him, making him wary of overindulgence. He expressed gratitude for his self-control, noting, “I was lucky I never got too big into cocaine.

A Sobering Reality of Fame

The actor reflected on the generational attitude towards cocaine in his time, where many of his peers dismissed it as harmless. Unfortunately, this misconception led to tragic outcomes for some, including his late friend John Belushi, who succumbed to a fatal overdose of cocaine and heroin at the young age of 33 in 1982. Matheson’s story is a sobering reminder of the risks that accompany fame and addiction.

A Versatile Career