Actor Charlie Sheen’s ex-wife, Brooke Mueller, reflected on her bond with the Platoon actor and her struggle with substance abuse in an exclusive interview with People Magazine on March 25, 2025. She was Sheen’s third wife, and they were married for almost three years until their divorce was finalized in 2011.
Speaking to the magazine outlet, she mentioned being in the fourth stage of her struggle with substance abuse. Brooke Mueller was sober for almost six years until she relapsed in 2023. She said:
“When we're at stage four, it typically means that cycle where you just have these relapses, no matter how well you get, and no matter how many years, it's just a matter of time. I want to be honest about it, because if I try to sugarcoat it, I'd be lying to myself.”
Brooke Mueller explained that as people grow older, the weight of past mistakes and the pain they have caused themselves and others become difficult. She emphasized that no one chooses to struggle, and there is often a mental health aspect involved. Mueller said that sometimes, the suffering becomes so overwhelming that the mind convinces itself that certain destructive choices are justified.
The actress reflected on the relapse after 2023, convincing herself she needed medication for ADHD. Although she experienced symptoms, she acknowledged that taking habit-forming substances was not the right choice for her. She explained how she often found ways to justify needing a prescription, but past relapses have shown how quickly she can lose control.
Brooke Mueller shares how Charlie Sheen and her kids supported her
Despite the ups and downs in their relationship, Mueller shared that Charlie Sheen has always been the first person she turns to for help, as he understood her struggles. However, she noted that they approached addiction differently.
According to her, Sheen believed overcoming it is a matter of choice, whereas Brooke Mueller feels that, for some, addiction takes away that choice. Reflecting on their marriage, she recalled how he could stop and move on, while she would find herself sneaking out in search of more. She added:
“In some ways, I guess I'm lucky but I wouldn't say living a life like this is any sort of great life. I'm not talking about now, but imagine you build up everything back.”
She continued:
“You finally gained the trust and the respect, and the kids are being dropped off in your care and then constantly throwing it all away, not even knowing why or how because you weren't planning on it.”
Brooke Mueller admitted that her children have come to expect her relapses, which she recognizes is unfair to them. Despite their young age, they have stayed positive, unlike her teenage years. She also shared that she and Sheen co-parent without legal involvement, something she is grateful for.
In an interview with Hollywood Raw in 2024, Mueller acknowledged that overcoming addiction has been extremely difficult, especially since many in her situation don’t make it.
Brooke Mueller emphasized the hard work it took to stay sober and credited her progress to following a recovery program and the 12-step approach. She also highlighted the support of a strong sober community in Malibu, including a group of women and regular meetings.
Also Read: Justin Bieber’s representatives shut down rumors about the singer using drugs
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