Acclaimed actor David Morrissey has opened up about his battle with alcoholism, revealing that crippling social anxiety was a primary driver. During an appearance on Desert Island Discs with host Lauren Laverne, the 61-year-old shared the deeply personal details of his struggle.

Morrissey, recognized for his roles in The Walking Dead, Sherwood, and Daddy Issues, explained that his drinking initially served as a way to navigate social situations. However, the habit eventually spiraled out of his control.

The Impact of Social Anxiety and Personal Loss

The actor traced the roots of his struggles to the decline of his father, Joe. When Morrissey was 15, his father passed away at the age of 54 at their home in Liverpool following a burst ulcer.

A Childhood Shaped by Tragedy

This loss prevented the pair from ever developing an adult relationship. Morrissey also expressed regret regarding his inability to support his mother during her period of grief, noting she seemed "drained of everything" at the time.

Amidst this turmoil, theatre became a vital sanctuary for the young actor. He even attended evening workshops at Liverpool's Everyman Theatre on the day of his father's death and the day of the funeral.

Finding Refuge in the Arts

His passion for acting was sparked by watching an episode of the 1970s drama Colditz. He felt a connection to a character who feigned madness to escape captivity, leading him to seek acting as a way to understand and control his internal emotions.

Morrissey eventually left home at age 16 to join a touring theatre company. He noted that while he feels safe and purposeful when working, he often struggles with confidence in his personal life.

The Turning Point: A Life-Saving Call

Morrissey's path to sobriety began 21 years ago through a desperate, late-night phone call. He reached out to a former colleague whom he knew was a member of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).

"He came round my house and just sat with me," Morrissey told Laverne. He revealed that he has not consumed alcohol since that pivotal night.

The Ongoing Reality of Recovery

While he has maintained sobriety for over two decades, Morrissey noted that the journey has not been without challenges. He explained that while he stopped drinking, he did not immediately stop being an alcoholic.

He admitted to continuing self-destructive behaviors for many years, noting a tendency to always look for an "exit strategy" in various situations. He shared that for a long time, he struggled with feelings of not being "enough," which contributed to his addiction.