Sean Kanan’s Emotional Journey to Sobriety on Bold & The Beautiful
Sean Kanan’s Inspiring Journey to Sobriety is a powerful testament to overcoming personal struggles.
The 58-year-old star of The Bold & The Beautiful, who has expertly portrayed Deacon Sharpe since 2000, recently opened up about the pivotal moment that led him to quit drinking nearly five years ago. His candid revelations highlight the challenges of addiction and the profound impact of personal relationships on recovery.
In an enlightening conversation with People, Sean shared the heartfelt plea from his wife, Michele Kanan, which struck him “like a lightning bolt.”
Discover the heartfelt motivations behind his decision…
“At one point, she said to me, ‘I have put my heart and everything into this relationship. Please tell me that I didn’t back the wrong horse,’” he recounted, emphasizing the emotional weight of her words.
“For a long time, I struggled to achieve sobriety, experiencing intermittent successes followed by significant setbacks. But hearing those words changed everything for me. The skies parted, and it set something in motion that was different than all my previous attempts,” he elaborated.
Ultimately, the thought of losing Michele became the driving force behind Sean’s commitment to sobriety.
“I truly believe that two powerful forces in the universe inspire profound and lasting change in individuals: fear and love. In my case, I was motivated by both,” he explained to the publication.
“I was terrified of losing the person I loved most, Michele, and that realization became the ultimate catalyst that propelled me to finally get my life together,” he shared, highlighting the dual motivations that fueled his transformation.
During the same interview, Michele clarified her intentions, stating that she didn’t want to give Sean an “ultimatum,” but rather provide a “safe space” for him to reflect on their relationship.
“I told him, ‘Look, this is our life together. It’s either going to be painful, and you’re going to watch me slowly die because I love you, and I see you’re hurting yourself for reasons I can’t fix. This will slowly affect me too. We’re in this together, and whatever you choose, the ball is in your court,’” she explained, emphasizing the importance of mutual support in their relationship.
Sean noted that achieving sobriety has had “a profound effect” on every aspect of his life.
“Someone once told me, ‘Would you give up one thing to have everything?’ I made the choice to give up alcohol, and in return, I gained everything. My life is incredible now. While I still strive for more, what stands out most is that I truly don’t miss drinking. It’s not a struggle for me; I’m not white-knuckling it,” he expressed, reflecting on the positive changes in his daily life.
“I attribute my success to my relationship with God, which has fundamentally removed something from my life that I never thought I could live without. Additionally, my love for Michele plays a significant role in my journey,” he added, underscoring the spiritual and emotional aspects of his recovery.
The couple, who married in 2012, continue to inspire others with their story. Discover more about other stars in Hollywood who have embraced sobriety.