London, England – Kit Harington, best known for his role as Jon Snow in HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones, recently opened up about his struggles with mental health issues and alcoholism. Speaking on the wellness podcast “Hidden 20%”, Harington revealed that his fame from the show took a toll on his well-being.
In 2019, Harington checked into a rehab facility to seek help for alcoholism. It was during his time there that he received a diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Reflecting on this period, Harington admitted, “I realized that my life was hinging on this… Luckily, it was the right place at the right time. I managed to forge a new life from there.”
According to the actor, he entered rehab while intoxicated but quickly made the decision to prioritize his recovery. He later sought treatment at a second rehab facility where he became aware of his ADHD. Despite initially attempting to manage the condition on his own, Harington found that it was necessary to seek professional help after four years.
Harington, who is now sober and focused on his family, shares two young children with his Game of Thrones co-star and wife, Rose Leslie. He acknowledged that his ADHD sometimes makes it difficult for him to stay focused, particularly when playing with his kids.
The instant fame brought on by Game of Thrones proved challenging for Harington. He admitted to projecting an image of sophistication and coolness while internally grappling with fear and anxiety. As the show neared its end, Harington found himself spiraling down a dangerous path, absorbing both the negative and positive commentary from viewers.
While HBO is reportedly considering a Jon Snow spinoff series, the project remains in the exploratory stages. If it does come to fruition, it would continue Jon Snow’s story beyond Westeros, with Harington expected to reprise his iconic role.
In this candid interview, Kit Harington’s bravery in discussing his personal struggles sheds light on the toll that fame can take on mental health. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking help and prioritizing self-care, even in the face of great success and acclaim.