80-Year-Old Liza Minnelli Confesses Addiction, Starts Recovery Program

Liza Minnelli, 80, publicly disclosed a diagnosis of substance use disorder on September 1 through an Instagram post that also honored National Recovery Month. She thanked family and friends for their support and revealed she is working with medical professionals to develop a recovery program.

The announcement follows her March memoir *Kids, Wait Till You Hear This*, which details her past struggles with addiction and her current sobriety.

In the post, Minnelli wrote that she feels “grateful to be alive” and remains hopeful despite the vulnerability that comes with aging. She credited her sister Lorna Luft, friend Michael Feinstein, and Dr. Lawrence Piro for helping her navigate treatment.

The performer also hinted at a partnership with UCLA’s Psychology Clinic director Dr. Richard LeBeau to create a companion program for others.

Minnelli’s public disclosure comes amid growing attention to mental health and substance use issues among older adults. The 80‑year‑old, who has earned acclaim as a Broadway star and actress, is now positioning herself as an advocate for recovery and education.

Her announcement signals a new chapter in her long career, one that extends beyond performance into public health outreach.

## Background & Context

Minnelli was born to Judy Garland and was raised in an environment that exposed her early to the pressures of show business. In her memoir she describes witnessing her mother’s struggles with medication and alcohol, while she herself was introduced to prescription drugs at a young age.

She has previously characterized her own use as “controlled” and stated that she did not consider herself a heavy drinker.

In March, Minnelli published *Kids, Wait Till You Hear This*, which became the New York Times bestseller list’s number one title. The book chronicles her journey from a childhood of performance to the realization that addiction could still undermine her life.

She ends the narrative by affirming her sobriety and expressing gratitude for the support systems that helped her maintain recovery.

The announcement follows Minnelli’s earlier social‑media messages in which she reflected on her sobriety at 80. She noted that she has lost several loved ones because of substance abuse and that “without sobriety, we will die.” These reflections underscore her intent to use her platform to raise awareness and provide resources for others.

## What Minnelli Says About Her Journey

In her September post, Minnelli wrote, “I’m helped by my darling sister Lorna Luft, who saved my life, my dearest friend Michael Feinstein, and the incredible Dr. Lawrence Piro.” She also announced that she is collaborating with Dr.

Richard LeBeau at UCLA’s Psychology Clinic to develop a program that incorporates lessons from her recovery. The initiative aims to serve both those in recovery and their support networks.

Minnelli emphasized the importance of guidance for family members and friends, saying, “Family, friends, husbands, wives, children, colleagues … must know how to help us, not enable us.” She stated that her forthcoming content will focus on educating people about the realities of addiction and the resources available.

She added that she intends to release more information through her Instagram page in the coming weeks.

The 80‑year‑old also reflected on the role of her memoir in shaping public perception. She noted that “Kids, Wait Till You Hear This!” has already helped “as many people as possible” by providing insight into her struggles and recovery.

She expressed hope that the new program would expand upon that reach and offer structured support for those dealing with substance use disorder.

## Next Steps and Impact

Minnelli’s collaboration with UCLA’s Psychology Clinic is expected to culminate in a publicly accessible recovery companion, described as a “program” that leverages her experiences. While details remain sparse, the partnership suggests a focus on evidence‑based practices combined with personal narrative.

The program will reportedly be delivered through digital platforms and community outreach.

The announcement also signals Minnelli’s continued involvement in advocacy. She has previously participated in campaigns for mental health awareness and has contributed to charitable causes related to addiction treatment.

Her new initiative may position her as a public figure leading conversations on substance use disorder among older adults.

Industry observers note that the timing aligns with National Recovery Month, an annual event that encourages sharing stories of recovery. Minnelli’s disclosure may inspire other celebrities to speak openly about their struggles, potentially normalizing discussions around aging and addiction.

Her platform as an iconic performer could broaden access to resources for individuals who feel marginalized by age or fame.

In the weeks ahead, Minnelli will likely share additional details about her UCLA partnership and the launch timeline for the recovery program.

Her candid announcement underscores a broader shift in the entertainment community toward acknowledging mental health challenges, especially as long‑time performers confront their own vulnerabilities. The impact of her story will unfold as the new initiative moves from planning to implementation.