James Hetfield Discusses Getting Sober (from Joe Rogan Experience

[@tylerulrich-hicks6057]

I met James Hetfield yesterday at an airport. Let me tell you something: the dude is genuine. My military buddies and I ran into him on our way to our flight back to our home station at the Denver International Airport and the dude was so down to earth. Had a three-minute conversation with him about hunting and guitar playing. He even offered a photo for us(even though he doesn't do photos) and the memory is saved in my mind forever. Such a fucking legend.

[@adr1ew]

I stopped at "my military friends"

[@666chuckfuck]

jealous dude

[@adr1ew]

@@EPA3 yet you care even more to tell me to fuck off lol are you the guy's boyfriend or something? keep your shit together pal

[@keithcitizen7314]

I remember being a teen listening to Metallica on a casset player, with a concert recorded casset from California in a plywood fort with my juvanile dalinquent friends, and I clearly recall how much I knew my hair will grow very long, my head will be banging and I will surely have hearing loss issues. 🤣🤣🤣

[@JerryAsbury1985]

He highly supports the military so that's why he offered a photo.

[@rileyyoung5935]

James has probably saved alot of people going down that path by being so open about his struggles.

[@chrisgill261]

10 months sober, have always loved 'Tallica, but now I relate to James and the music that much more....

[@xxPanteraxxx]

Chris Gill That's awesome dude! Keep it up :-)

[@jeffreydahmer3322]

As addicts we should be grateful to have gone through this and came out the otherside strong. We should use this to help others going through the same. I drank a bottle of vodka a day MINIMUM on top of popping benzos for 7 years. I went to detox twice, hospital once during withdrawal and finally after all that failure I got sick of the hellish routine that I created where every second of my existence was for alcohol. So I cold turkeyed it. lasted 60 days then succumbed to temptation on a cruise ship. Cold turkeyed again then had to go to hospital because I was tripping balls. Cold turkeying pills and booze is hell. Can't think of anything worse. James had all the money and help at his disposal. Think of how much stronger we are.

[@rileyyoung5935]

he said he tried pot the night before recording kill em all on the kill em all 25 years documentary but idk if he continued.

[@TheKereberus]

Bryan Jones I believe that was around the time he had his back/neck surgery and was on painkillers. I'm assuming it was that.

[@DavidMasson90]

I remember 4 years ago when I watched this. What James said inspired me to go to rehab. Like his wife told him: No more just talking about it with a therapist, it was time to do something about it. So I went to rehab. It was this interview that planted the seed in my head. Im now 3+ years sober from alcohol and drugs. Thank You James. I wil be forever grateful for you! Metallica Montreal 2017. best concert of my life.

[@killuasa8399]

congrats man addiction is a bitch

[@whatistau]

thats awesome

[@RitaLynn444]

❤❤❤

[@rickpickle]

word, i saw the san diego show from the 2017 tour

[@derekthetrader2929]

Congrats buddy!

[@scowlfarm3061]

588 days clean and sober! I'm beyond blessed.

[@mattchisholm6129]

Blake Oshag shut up

[@Panthersigma]

You must really have no soul to post something like this to someone sharing the success of sobriety

[@kawasakiwhiptwo5821]

Matthew Kaprutus congrats.

[@Dewitt-b8n]

he is a 7 year old in a grown man's body. I have a huge amount of sober time, I choose not to put days on it. Keep up the fight.

[@claudioortiz9007]

Matthew Kaprutus 3

[@blasterofmuppets4754]

We threw out my drunk Father when I was 11. He never sobered up. He stayed a drunk and died from being a drunk. He died as a nobody and is now buried in an unmarked grave. James was my Hero as a teenager and im really happy to hear that he went through rehab (twice now) for his family. I'm really proud of that guy. He's still my hero.

[@heartistik]

Damn bloody cruel. Should have helped him

[@lellyt2372]

@@heartistik you have absolutely no right to say that to someone! You have NO IDEA what the family went through and NO IDEA how many times they tried to help or anything. Just be quiet 🤫

[@fredrick443]

@@lellyt2372 Serious. I've been working with drunks since I got sober 6 years ago. Being committed in an institution for 7 months with nowhere else to go got me sober. Pain gets people sober. Getting kicked out gets people sober (sometimes). Living at the Salvation Army gets people sober. "Helping" them, Passages at Malibu, or whatever other enabling behaviors the "Dr" has in mind only makes their issue worse and allows them to take you out with them.

[@keithd2284]

You didn't do shit when you were 11. Your mother kicked him out. And the question is, under who's authority? And did they care about you?

[@tanneredge9774]

Hopefully you got a decent stepdad

[@Rich-kp1eu]

Kudos to Joe Rogan for letting his guest talk. Most of these people love to hear themselves talk over their guest. Joe asks a question and lets the guest go. Thanks Joe, it is why you are the best.

[@Bassist-Beneath]

you must be new here, Joe does that with a lot of people. or used to at least, I don't watch anymore

[@Olm9]

@@Bassist-Beneath You don't watch, but only find Joe Rogan clips to comment on..?!? 😮 How does that work..? 🤔

[@Bassist-Beneath]

@@Olm9 uh, the KZbin algorithm? Are you disabled?

[@Olm9]

@@Bassist-Beneath My bad.. I made the assumption that you weren't an absolute inbreed sheep who couldn't help himself clicking on everything YT would suggest and commenting on it..

[@blobgooll9395]

@@Olm9 LOL

[@markyncole]

Quitting booze and drugs is very easy,I've done it hundreds of times.

[@timetowin2413]

markyncole this comment is seriously underrated

[@chrisverstappen7252]

hehehe👍

[@StephenSilvaBrave]

Dumb but funny!! Literally made me lol

[@crede8829]

Hahahahahaha

[@darthtwelve4398]

I don’t have a drinking problem. People have a problem with my drinking! Haha

[@theax40]

As a man that grew up without a father, without any legitimate father figure, no one to influence me or to look up to; James Hetfield means so much to me. The man taught me how to play heavy metal guitar. He told me to always strive to be the best, simply through learning how to play the songs he wrote. Many are so physically challenging and difficult. You have to have certain level of resolve to learn to play old Metallica songs. James means so much to me.

[@DarkReturns1]

Same brother.

[@maddfiend]

Damn I remember jamming kill 'em all and R.T.L. on my ghetto blaster in 7th grade and the 9th grade stoners would tell me shit like " Is that all you ever listen too? That shit is cool sometimes but can't you put on some Sabbath or something?" Then a couple years later I'd catch up to these guys in high school and now there all wearing Metallica shirts too! But yeah Metallica's stuff is fun to play, if you want some really challenging shit check out some newer Exodus Tabs! Gary Holt gets down! I was hoping to see a Slayer album that he actually contributed to the writing of music, Exodus should've been part of the Big 4! Instead of that pompous ass Dave Muffstain the undisputed ego-maniac of all time and his lame band Megadik! He's always sniveling like a little bitch " Metallica tries to ruin me and they stole all my music and wee wee wee all the way home where the big bad Jaymz is waiting to eat little red crying mustardstain

[@SeC-q9m]

Awesome my man

[@Ibanezguy2007]

Man I love James, he's such a good guy and almost like a lost father figure to me. The absolute King of Heavy Metal.

[@fredjamison2693]

I bet he cleaned up your diapers.

[@Ibanezguy2007]

@@fredjamison2693 How did you know!

[@fredjamison2693]

@@Ibanezguy2007 You have a good sense of humor, that's how I knew.

[@ddpkmv2-alex539]

He's not the King of Heavy Metal but he is very talented.

[@lolnothanksbill]

Music is bigger than 1 guy

[@ThaiThom]

James Hetfield grew up. Not everybody does. Good for him.

[@ejamsc]

And the ones that don't get into politics😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@mv9787]

You got it!

[@datunes]

Grew up into a dry balls

[@Goabnb94]

And then all the "fans" are all "ugh they don't write anything like RTL or MOP anymore". Yeah, because they aren't drunk, drugged up 20 year olds being ignored for glam metal. They have success, they have families, they have age and maturity. They write complex songs, not the same material they did at 20. Different era in life. Cant we be happy they are happy but still writing music? Or must they return to a life they don't want for your sake? Why can't you go to the new up-and-coming bands for that music?

[@oliveiraluis3540]

Totally agree. But they made a and justice for all album... so indulgence in not growing up is part of growing up I guess. But ride the lighting is the shit, for me.

[@ryanduray1]

I'm just like James Hetfield without the talent or success or sobriety or self respect. Other than that, we're the same guy.

[@freddie9165]

Yeah.. Here's what I want to know. How the fuck do you get sober when you're 30. You don't have a family, you can barely keep a shit boy job that pays you 20K a year, and you have a handful of friends you never see. Now, imagine that your drinking DOESN'T affect anyone but yourself and you only drink at home because your life sucks. What should be my motivation to get sober. What will I gain in life. The only thing I'll gain with sobriety the reality that my life is shit more often than not. Fuck, I think if I actually had something to lose I wouldn't even want to drink anymore.

[@freddie9165]

I mean.. when I was 11 years old. I was a fucking phenomenal guitarist. By the time I saw Metallica for the first time at Summer Santiarium 2000 in Denver at Mile High I knew every single song in their catalog rhythm and lead, and would play through entire live DVD's of Metallica singing along with James. I had the best guitar teacher in the world for 6 years. Chris Broderick of Megadeth. I was slated to go on warped tour with a band when I was 20 but stayed home to run my business that ended up going under in 2008. Now I'm just a sad sack of shit.

[@ryanduray1]

Freddydoesfood That's the worst part of getting sober, the reality of it. There's nowhere left to run. Our situations are so similar it's almost scary. 36, shit job, no future, been drinking and using drugs for 20 years and trying to adjust and create a reason not to escape reality has been the biggest challenge. All you can do is keep fighting and try to find your own reasons. I truly hope the best for you man. You're definitely not alone in your struggle. Life can really be a major bitch.

[@freddie9165]

I"m hoping I can find the motivation to do this on my own before it kills me. Same to you man. I hadn't even really though about it this deeply until I watched this video, so maybe this can be the motivation we both need.

[@ashleytaylor994]

Most people are addicted because of unresolved mental health issues. If you don't solve those first you will never get sober. Read philosophy and see a therapist

[@Bassman36]

I saw James speak at a church in Arizona, back in 2011. They didn’t screen questions from the audience at all; we threw whatever at him and he answered everything with brutal honesty. Just a real person, intense, intelligence, and deep. James rules.

[@campbells0ups]

Hey James whatever youre going through I hope you get the help you need and stay strong, we have your back always.

[@advenchureswithmatt97]

Nick Campbell I was about to comment that I’m praying for him and hope he is doing alright

[@rasher331]

Thank God I got to see them in Slane before he went to Rehab, best gig in 20 years

[@johnsmithwesson9996]

@@rasher331 There is no way you ain't irish. Rashers are the best fwman thing in the planet. That and slane Castle.

[@rasher331]

@@johnsmithwesson9996 haha...I am indeed :) Up the Irish!!!

[@johnsmithwesson9996]

@@rasher331 Damn right man 🇮🇪

[@alphamail6269]

15 years fuck yeah! I have over 2 years sober and its the best decision I've ever made!

[@juanmontelongo4362]

Pablo Munoz beer is life tho

[@Johnny6666]

Good for you, man. Wish you the best! :)

[@alphamail6269]

bubblez beano -thank you

[@hallnoats4ever942]

Pablo Munoz 2 and 1/2 for me can't wait to say 15

[@ronnieharrisson]

great man!

[@TheGillenium]

This is a must see clip for anyone trying to get sober. I found James saying things to Joe that I myself have said directly to people who ask about my sobriety and how I do it etc…except my explanations were an incomplete puzzle. James filled in the missing pieces here. I never went to a rehab, but his description of what they put him through is the best way I can imagine anyone ever describing it. You don’t know who you are without alcohol. Especially if you were like myself and had been drinking since middle school. I quit when I was 35. That’s a lifetime lived under the influence. I’m 39 now…and I’m still learning who I am. You have to learn what you like without being fucked up, because when you’re fucked up you can love and hate everything at the same time. And you will. You’re lost. But I tell you what, I know one thing I can say I love now and it’s Metallica. I’ve always been a fan, I know much of their music but never actually owned an album. After seeing them live this past weekend I can honestly say when they played Enter Sandman it was the most amazing experience of my life. So much positive energy I never knew was possible. Thank you James. -A new Metallica Superfan

[@chefjlb]

I'm 1 year and 7 months sober and this video helps a lot of people find the strength and courage to stay sober! I too have been right there at risk of losing everything because of drinking and I know the struggles of getting sober and trying figure out who you are without the booze. It's tough but I'm glad I now choose sobriety!

[@BK_2016sr5]

This comment didn’t age well

[@ryanfritsche9301]

@@BK_2016sr5 why

[@BK_2016sr5]

@@ryanfritsche9301 he went off the wagon again and it spiraled

[@ryanfritsche9301]

@@BK_2016sr5 James hetfield?

[@BK_2016sr5]

@@ryanfritsche9301 Jason

[@DennGreenIII]

it's weird to see that you have this fucking titan of a legendary heavy metal band, and the guy is just a really down to earth, well spoken, normal guy

[@Avidgolfer1347]

Jared Dowty m

[@englishquizfactory]

James is such a beast of a human. Imagine how much hard work this guy must have put into the band over the decades to have so many legendary songs. What a god

[@MetRighteousTV]

sad news, probably all y'all heard it by now, James returned to rehab today, on Cliff's anniversary. Nothing but love and support for him.WE will stay him till the end no matter what. Love you Papa Het

[@seanodeli7031]

Cliff?

[@89kilemal]

@@seanodeli7031 What about him?

[@THRITCHIE76]

If you're new to Metallica, Cliff Burton was their second bassist in the band. He died when their tour bus hit a patch of ice while he was sleeping on the top bunk. He went partially through the window, the bus landed right on him after it flipped over. Cliff's parents stayed very close to the band for many years and not too long ago Cliff's dad died. That must have hit James pretty hard.

[@Phant0mGetsuga993]

Anyone else here after James checked himself into rehab yesterday? :(

[@dylanrada1620]

Phant0mGetsuga993 yeah it sucks man

[@roadbully384]

Just read it now. Wow

[@littv1610]

Damn he relapsed?

[@nunocoelho8979]

Even normal people relapse..james a warrior u got this

[@odeed]

I heard this as well. This video actually helped me get sober. Luckily I am still on the wagon. I hope James can jump back on with me.

[@HeismanHerbo]

Having Master of Puppets on repeat for a couple days was a real turning point for me when I was trying to get off the yayo. The lyrics remind me of the empty depressing feeling coke always left me with, which made me ask myself why I kept doing it. Obviously, I had no good answer for that question. But going on 3 years without even having the slightest desire to do the shit is one of the best feelings I’ve ever had

[@patrickstultiens7885]

Thanks mate

[@jays4863]

Congratulations dude. Hope you’re still doing well. I’m 2 years, 3 months clean from coke myself. It was real tough in the beginning but like you said, it was a viscous, depressing cycle.

[@charliedillon1400]

It's so much easier to avoid coke once you've been to South America and had the real shit and then realize the stuff you get back in your country is garbage.

[@turtleneckferret]

@@charliedillon1400 true

[@manateemilk1]

Almost two years here. Congratulations 🎈🎊🍾🎉

[@kapnkronic8051]

This mans words have got me through everything ive ever went through. My hearts aches for him. I'm just glad he loves his fans do much that he decided to get help quick so he can be can be here for us as long as possible

[@jayw3512]

James Hetfield is a legend. His father left when he was 13, and his mother passed few years later. James deserves every ounce of success he has. I’d love to sit down and have a beer (or something else since he probably doesn’t have a beer here or there anymore).

[@jye_24]

Pretty sure he still drinks on occasion, think he always would when rob really set in, he broke that scary addiction barrier but i know he never day drinks or weekday

[@SeptemberSeventeenth]

He was back in rehab couple of years ago

[@jye_24]

@@SeptemberSeventeenth false he was going to a form of psychology rehab he didn’t have to be there.

[@SeptemberSeventeenth]

@@jye_24 "False!" Whatever, was just saying he did shortly after I saw them in 2019, no need to be a keyboard warrior

[@fredberthold1696]

James and Dave Mustain helped me get sober. I was a falling down drunk and a heroine addict roming the streets of Brooklyn. By sober 8 months now thnx to them.

[@driverchance]

Been a major influence on why I'm 20 and have never touched alcohol or drugs.. thank you James!!

[@blakeoshag1559]

Chance Campbell you will eventually. And then be a drug user.

[@Phant0mGetsuga993]

Hell yeah bro!!!

[@alexloenhart5553]

Nerd

[@juanrezende4914]

Alex Loenhart fuck no

[@CirclingtheFringes]

Chance Campbell Very good for you my friend. Dont listen to what the losers tell you

[@josh18230]

It was always infuriating to hear people say he was a better musician before rehab. And we wonder why so many great artists go so early. I'm glad James is still here making music.

He was a better musician before rehab and the "music" he is making after rehab can barely be considered music from Metallica, mind you this is coming from a Metallica fan...

[@thejack0fhearts43]

Krljavi Dzo Could be he’s a better musician before sobriety. If that’s the case, you gotta respect the guy for putting his family ahead of his career. More likely though, imo, is the delusions of so many metalheads thinking that all 50 year old men should be able to deliver the same aggression and physicality of the genre that they could in their teens and 20’s.

[@MasterViseOMG]

I doubt a grown ass man has the, shall we say, "attitude" fit for thrash metal. He has found some kind of peace, but lost the aggression, vigour and brutality that made Metallica truly something else

[@christianler3959]

Josh Hunter could not agree more!!

[@alancosens]

To anyone who is a decent musician it is obvious that he is a better musician now. Outside of musicianship he is far more diverse, far more creative now. Turning out super high-quality. Vocally his artistry is far, far advanced over what it was 20 years ago. Was listening to And Justice For All today. It's almost intolerable from a vocal standpoint. And you can hear his sadness. Now he has a spirit of play and is much more attractive as a being. His relationship with is audience exudes love now. When he was drinking it was just hostility.

[@LaVerdad65]

What a great clip! I especially like when he talks about letting go of the tough exterior and embracing vulnerability. And relearning your identity. That is truly becoming human. That is the defeat of narcissism.

[@garretttanner7436]

James was my inspiration to get sober and thanks to him and Metallica listening to their music it helped me through a lot and for over a year-and-a-half now I can happily say I'm sober

[@ALFREDOVADER]

Great inspiration Garret. Mine is Zakk Wylde, but I didn't make it yet. I'm still drinking, but well....somehow I'm gonna make it. Didn't realize it was so hard. Cheers from Colombia.

[@CelestialWoodway]

James Hetfield has a cool voice. Could do documentary voice work.

[@thornbird4400]

He already does that ;)

[@CropiCZE]

He should start a metal band , maybe he can even sing with that voice !

[@dragenthatch3623]

FreakeyStyley oh yeah he'd do great. 😂

[@FloydofOz]

YEAHHHHH!

[@CelestialWoodway]

@@thornbird4400 What documentaries?

[@easternag16]

2:27 "She was the invisible kid too" Me: "St. Anger reference?"

[@hectorkjv_1611]

Yes. Yes, it was.

[@MA-fb7je]

This interview gave me a lot to think about regarding some of the issues I am coping with in my life. I have been a huge fan since And Justice for All and this band saved my life a few times through their music. You guys will probably never see this, but thank you from the bottom of my heart. You guys rock!

[@Alamyst2011]

3 days sober.

[@Alamyst2011]

At 21 days sober now

[@FreeTheJambon]

Keep it up man

[@1999RandomDude]

Alamyst2011 Hell yeah that’s what’s up man! You’ve got this!

[@Alamyst2011]

@@1999RandomDude Thank you. At 35 days now

[@mikee9511]

Alamyst2011 just keep on keeping on

[@marksasich5210]

Man I always appreciate when celebrities talk candidly about recovery. I think it does so much for people who are naturally mistrusting of social recovery. I also really appreciated the interview Steve-O. Relapse prevention has the key to this thing. Thanks for doing such a good job Joe!

[@SerenityNow81]

Hetfield is an absolute hero to me. A lot of people don't like the record "some kind of monster.." but if you watch that documentary and see the absolute hell he was going through in both his personal life and with band drama at the time, it is an absolute miracle that he made it out to the other side and became an even better and stronger person. The band as a whole has become stronger and more cohesive if that's even possible... absolutely the best heavy metal band. Metallica Forever!!!!!

[@patmalloy3569]

I love st anger. I really identify with that album

[@waitindelaney]

St. Anger's totally underrated. Great album. To me, it's the best punk album ever made

[@MrLennybach]

Much respect to the struggle with in

[@stevenesbitt3528]

Like all the best documentaries, it's turns out to be about something completely different than they aimed for when they started.

[@whatsjayupto107]

Can you please tell me the name of documentary you talking about?

[@trevorprzepiora7926]

Best wife ever . We all need a woman like that in our life . Someone who is willing to do whatever it takes to help their man . In his case it was tough love . Amazing .

[@aztecwhistle9122]

No wife should be enabled by their husband to boot them out of their own house that they payed for lol

[@seanfitzgerald2078]

@@aztecwhistle9122 if kids are in the picture and you're worried for their safety or their relationship with a toxic father, then it's way different. That's not about money that's a concerned spouse and mother.

[@aztecwhistle9122]

@@seanfitzgerald2078 meh, it should have of been up to the bread winner to make the changes for himself without being threatened by his female dependent partner. Any police reports against him? Did he beat his kids? Or, did he meet some groupie after a show and sign his whole life over to her because he fell In love with her? (his wife) That's what I understood from watching the Metallica box sets and documentaries. Maybe It was that lag time between re load and st anger that made her wonder if he was going to continue or not. That probably up$et her.

[@seanfitzgerald2078]

@@aztecwhistle9122 yeah you could be right I probably haven't looked into it as much, but either way there was a positive outcome in the end

[@justdev8965]

@@aztecwhistle9122 i love what you said man. Up$etting a gold digger is very easy

[@dontbesuchamorty]

He describes alcoholism/addiction perfectly. A little after the 4 minute mark he talks about how it was important for him to be “re-integrated” into society because of rehab having him in a safe cocoon. This is sooooo on point, and this factor helps a great many addicts succeed.

[@KloudyTV]

Absolutely. It's all about having a solid plan when you leave. 85% of addicts in rehabs relapse within the first 30 days of leaving treatment. Keep fighting the good fight.

[@KallyJones]

Hats off to Hetfield. Sharing his story and road to recovery is a great help to those who struggle with addiction, fear, anxiety, depression etc...

[@Holktube]

Always good to hear successful recovery stories. Just for today, James!

[@scowlfarm3061]

Holktube Jft

[@mariz9084]

Just for today.

[@stephendouglas4343]

I need this in my life.

[@peraperic8775]

And 60 millions in bank

[@mattchisholm6129]

Joey Dunlop ya that helps but its still tough. Could actually make it harder because moneys no issue. . lots of ppl with addiction are broke so its not so easy to afford your high ya know

[@michaelfish09]

12 years sober here. My daughter coming into this world saved me. it took until she was 18 months old, but I realized she deserved me as I was meant to be, not medicated buy drink and drug.

[@calisongbird]

I always enjoy these “how I got clean” stories, everyone loves a good redemption story - it’s as old as time. But serious question: why do we never celebrate as much those who resisted temptation in the first place, despite it being all around them, and never got addicted? Instead, many of us who dare to decline alcohol in a social setting get grilled about “why not?” like we owe anyone an explanation. What IS that??

[@AllanDavisArt]

Hope all is still going well?

[@noOneAskedForHandleOnYT]

If I had kids I'd need a drink for sure

[@DeeJayBonk]

Thank you for sharing. My daughter is 18 months old and I'm going to rehab today . 4 hours from now to save my soul hoping praying

[@joshspring6144]

Absolutely shattered James Hetfield is back in rehab

[@ultimatemetalguitartones]

sad but fucking true...

[@jobrakai9395]

Johnny Cash relapsed after several years in his life. Then he rose above it stronger than ever. Relapses happen, then never again

[@paulesposito4397]

Me too.

[@eggieejames]

I wouldn't really worry too much, after 20 odd years you'd tend to fall off a bit

[@harlslee8747]

me too.

[@SandboxBullies]

I've been sober 7years. And greatfull that I'm sober currently.

[@LunaLoveBad6969]

I will always admire this man for being so open and real about his struggles. About being HUMAN That’s one thing that goes over a lot of people’s heads, especially musicians or anyone in that life. They forget who they are at their core and get side tracked by all the fame and egos and crap and forget that they’re still human beings and humans are allowed to make mistakes and grow through them. I know he relapsed recently but he’s a strong guy and hope that he’s doing well and came out the other side of it just like before❤️

[@whereisevan]

Writing this as news just broke that James has re-entered rehab. Just shows you that addiction can take anyone down. Rich or poor. Famous or anonymous. And, sadly, even if you’ve been in recovery before. James. We love you. You’re down, but not out. You can beat this again.

[@mikemasiello5965]

This is a tough SOB. No ego, all real.

[@dannyho6786]

Seems like a pretty real guy, met him once at a party in el cerrito at brian kehoe's house.

[@Oiak1086]

@King Greed they ruled the world , so its kind of normal to feel yourself ''there'', but nowadays, being a way more mature guy, you see the REAL one, whit a top career, still being the biggest band, and you see here like the real human being he is

[@robertm1669]

Give anyone a few million and rehab and they can be a tough SOB

[@psemond72]

Robert M there couldn’t be a less true statement on KZbin. Music, movies and television or FULL of people who had millions and rehab and they are dead or forgotten now.

[@mhuh]

@King Greed That was the Alcoholica days. They weren't good people then.

[@monmacphee289]

Kudos to James’s wife. Sounds like she pushed him to save his life.

[@robertlinhart7429]

All hail Francesca

[@victormealing5162]

So true, knowing she could simply leave and be set for life $$ wise but instead stood by her man. Mad respect.

[@pockyeatingpanda]

That’s got to be really hard to do as a wife with kids.

[@noOneAskedForHandleOnYT]

That's why you need to order a wife from overseas, no man should get kicked out of his own house. Wonder what she was bringing to the table.

[@laurieleiann904]

@@noOneAskedForHandleOnYT Wow. Very well said, and yeah it's a shame but the divorce rate has still been going up for years now. SAD BUT TRUE.

[@threeone6012]

People drink, smoke, take drugs, cheat, etc. etc. for 1 reason. They want to feel different. In most cases they want to feel different because they're unhappy.

[@johnnyrocker7495]

100%. That's it in a nutshell. Two ways to deal with unhappiness: 1) Hedonism 2) Eradicate the negativity in your life, be it from friends, family, work, whatever. Having tried both, I recommend option 2 as by far the wiser choice.

[@flangecorp9789]

I hear that brother!

[@therealjulez7886]

AMEN brother .. been clean since 2011 took me several years to get used to the real person I am today

[@morganrodriguez1555]

110 percent true

[@jayyoutube8790]

No. That’s how you become an addict. if what you said was true, everyone at a party is “unhappy”..

[@feardrinker]

I am always happy to hear an artist like James talk about his sobriety. This helps people.

[@toddcampbell9044]

I’ve been sober for 23 months from booze. It’s not easy. It’s a gift

[@skeezix8156]

My last beer was in ‘99. Ended up in jail. New baby on the way. Wtf am I doing I thought. Just quit after a 10 year party. Hardest part was doing things that used to automatically call for a Rainier beer. Even watching a football game. Took me about ten years to entirely not think about it. Best decision I made in the 90’s though

[@BG-nj7kf]

Never had a problem with addiction, but I love a good victory story. James seems like a stand up guy. Thank you for sharing.

[@thebomb78]

I'm 41 n I lived with my Ma n Dad for 3 months after my breakup with my Mrs. Listening to James who is one of my 'hero's' make me try n talk to her again. God Bless James 🤘🏻

[@mccloysong]

8:21 "You're searching for that thing that's going to save you, and it's you, it's in you; it's already there. You just gotta find it and accept it" THAT is the secret to finally being at peace with yourself.

[@iamradical]

That was one of the hardest parts about getting sober for me, I still don’t know how to act around people and I still have a lot of trouble talking to people.

[@formalino]

Social Anxiety? you know that in that case, alcohol reinforces that, become a vicious circle. You gotta realize that feeling comfortable with yourself is what you need first, because it's not about the other people, you're fearing YOUR reactions to other people.

[@mattgoodmangoodmanlawnmowi2454]

Matt’s dad here. Sober now over three decades. First years a roller coaster. High functioning alcoholic with three divorces no kids. Thought life was boring at first. Took six months to dance. At someone’s AA anniversary party. Failed sober relationship and thinking about ending it all second sober Spring. Had a strong strange feeling that things might still get better so I continued. A few months later met the love of my life. We are still together and Matt is just one of the great things that have been a byproduct of our relationship and our desire to preserve what we have with each other. I have never seen anyone who powered through the early days months and years whose life didn’t drastically improve within a few years. Learned who I really was and all that. So glad I decided to quit when I did. Don’t miss drinking at all anymore. My life before sobriety was still pretty successful career wise when I quit, but my whole life since being sober and doing the AA steps is so much better. If you are new remember it takes some work & time but it’s worth it

[@veryspoicy]

This hit me deep I've felt like this my whole life. I've focused so much on being someone that I'm not that. It's hard to except but I know being sober is the right choice.

[@shaunmorris8176]

2021 I'm a few weeks away from 1 year sober. Birthday, Christmas and new year's was hard not to drink. So happy I was mentally strong.

[@iamradical]

James is a legend and a class act. The man knows how to write amazing music.

[@facepalmdaily4404]

Now that he's sober, hell yea. I've met him more than once. Drunk James is a complete a-hole. Sober James is Papa Het.... just one of the coolest dudes you've ever met.

[@JerryAsbury1985]

He amazes himself with the shit he wrote in the 80s, shit is some of the best lyrics I've ever read.

[@ragatrix]

I am so grateful to James for being so honest. It helps so much that I can look up to someone while going through the valley of the shadow of death

[@LouisPaquette]

Great interview. Very generous of James to share his past weaknesses with us like this. And what a fine example he set by facing his demons as he did.

[@calisongbird]

I always enjoy these “how I got clean” stories, everyone loves a good redemption story - it’s as old as time. But serious question: why do we never celebrate as much those who resisted temptation in the first place, despite it being all around them, and never got addicted? Instead, many of us who dare to decline alcohol in a social setting get grilled about “why not?” like we owe anyone an explanation. What IS that??

[@bochafish]

Loved Metallica growing up, great to see James so healthy.

[@DrNickRiveria]

its spelled Wealthy*

[@maciejwodarczyk9669]

Relaxing music sleep

[@jameshetfield6024]

@bochafish Hey🌹, how are you doing today?

[@bochafish]

@@jameshetfield6024 Doing well Mr Hetfield! Lol

[@scott83074]

Love listening to this. I'm also sober props to his wife. It's so awesome how more and more people are open about this kind of stuff. Being honest and open about who you are and vulnerable and then going up on stage and letting the music rip that's metal as f***

[@kazTHEcomic]

This dude is the epitome of a true man. I have nothing but respect for James. Keep doing your thing, brother.

[@mememaster-pj7xn]

Just heard he went back into rehab. Stay strong brother.

[@olm8829]

What James tells here about overthinking and mental blocks, is so real. I was very good at studying (I focused on it completely, it was the only thing I was really good at, it was my outlet. I wrote myself off as a person long ago, I was always alone, deeply in love but not in a relationship, not a good friend, not a good son, not a good colleague, but a good student), but burned out, failed a few exams, it created a mental block, I couldn’t even open a book without breaking down, and then it was like a snowball rolling down a mountain and turning into an avalanche that buried me whole. It’s been almost three years now, and I still can’t recover. It and the war in my homeland, which started soon after my burnout, pushed me into a quite deep depression, I went to a hospital for almost nine months, tried every possible therapy and medication they could offer, and it still didn’t help. Moral of the story: go see a professional before it’s too late. It didn’t help me, but it can help you, James is an example that it can help. I should’ve done it way earlier, maybe when I was in my teens, but I chose to act tough and to put a mask on. Now I’m an empty shell of a man, a complete failure, a deadbeat loser in my late twenties, feeling like I’m already in my late nineties, sitting in my bed and spilling my guts in a KZbin comment section, because I have no one to speak with about this stuff.

[@jondoe6273]

Not many rock stars become wise in their old age. Hell, not many rock stars become old. He's become a great role model whether he wanted that or not.

[@THOMAS2910able]

The Americans die young , British never fucking die .

[@colinemler2356]

Pineapple Pioneer bon scott, sid viscous plenty more

[@happyskull1673]

'Some Kind of Monster' was a really generous insight into the bands state after the rise and rise of MetallicA, James is one of the most honest, focused and genuine musicians in a pretty messed up, fabricated industry, hats off to him, huge respect.

[@PatriotIzzy]

Amen brother. God bless.

[@michaelmunday6808]

I think the death of Cliff always hit James hard maybe some survivors guilt or just a heavy heart from the loss of someone that he was tied to in so many ways.

[@craigrock8444]

Very proud of this man..this husband and father! Bravo

[@AcidTechnoMan5000]

Took 38 seconds till he started with the MMA stuff, LOL. Surprised he lasted 38 seconds.

[@daveg4236]

slade bonge and pot

[@thrasher2094]

Well, Joe knows mma so naturally he's gunna draw parallels between mma and what it happens to be similar to in some way

[@tonypino5415]

I did lose my family largely due to my addiction. A year later I'm still picking up the pieces.

[@davidbrunik]

Such a humble rockstar

[@james2155]

There is actually a lot out there, Dave grohl is a great example

[@dannyho6786]

I could see how he had to leave the SF bay area.

[@BOG0690]

@@dannyho6786 He talks about that in another interview.....So many prudes in the Bay area

[@rowanmelton7643]

He is now. Most do get humble at his age. Can't really blame a rockstar in his 20s for being an arrogant arsehole tbh. It's not like they don't have reason to be that way

[@Giuseppe_f1n]

James is everything but humble, look how he treated their bassist Jason, he even cut his basslines from AJFA

[@T.M.Warren-qp2gq]

It's good to see James has got his shine back.He looks healthy & alive.Good Man!

[@haleyedwards8105]

Met James Hetfield in Colorado a few days ago through a family friend who is close with him. Went to dinner with him and he told me a story about how he broke his wrist skateboarding because I was sitting at the table with a broken elbow from skating. He’s such an awesome and sweet guy. It was certainly a once in a lifetime experience

[@Omran-g9o]

Oh you are so lucky, can u tell us more

[@charliedillon1400]

It was in '86 I think. I saw Metallica open for Ozzy that year and James had his arm in a cast from skateboarding and his guitar tech played his parts while James sang. Just a few weeks later they went to Europe and Cliff died. A few years later I saw them headline on And Justice for All and they had Jason and James played guitar of course. Lucky to have seen both tours.

[@joshalexander2925]

We'll all be here when you're ready James!

[@stevenesbitt3528]

You can hear the word choice for his lyrics come through in the way he talks in real life, Legend. Absolute legend.

[@5Ringz01]

Same situation here man. You dont realize anything or even listen to anything until you sit back and watch everything and everyone going away. Then you come back and it jolts you and you get it together. 11 days sober and never been more focused.

[@LucasPenido]

James Hetfield's overcoming story is amazing! To me, It parallels with Metallica's magnitude! This interview specifically really touched me! God Bless you James and thank you!

[@mikerobinson4006]

lucaspenido fuck you James Tom from SLAYER,been through worse

[@Thomasuki267]

It's fine if you have 6-7 figures of resources for rehab, etc. He did it with a massive input of expensive professional help; good for him, but the typical person can't expect the same without the same resources, unless you believe the bootstrap baloney of the 12-step movements.

[@JstPF-93]

@@Thomasuki267 theres very good rehabs availble for people who have state funded inssurance. Well at least here in pa, nothing fancy but the techs in a lot of these places are in recovery and have amazing things to say. Also 12 step programs save peoples fucking lives, trust me.

[@willderouen8002]

Mike Robinson who cares stop your petty junkie pride. Props to anyone who has beaten addiction or is still beating it no matter how bad you had it. The struggles are the same

[@destructionman1]

Rehab is like a gym. If you're James Hetfield, yes you can afford the fanciest gym ever with the best personal trainers, dieticians, a chef to make you meals, hot yoga classes, etc. etc. If you're an average donk like us, you can still go to a gym and get ripped if you work hard enough, can you not? It might cost $80 a month or whatever which could very well be difficult depending on your financial situation, but I bet you could do it. So yes I see your point, but anyone can do rehab if they want it bad enough. My 2 cents.

[@coledesnoyer1315]

Phil anselmo I bet that dude has some crazy story's

[@pape37]

Phil would be the greatest guest, but in this PC climate he really wouldn't be able to speak freely. Rogan probably wouldn't go near him anyway because of the controversy.

[@adrianrocha7273]

pape37 I don't know there could be chance hopefully because Joe did have Milo as a guest so hopefully in the future Phil could be a guest on this podcast

[@allahbless2278]

pape37 he had Milo on who is arguably the most controversial figure after Trump

[@hallnoats4ever942]

Cole Desnoyer Metallica is not even worthy to clean Phil's boots

[@joshv5376]

hallnoats4ever cept they put Pantera on the map. fucking millenials man. load/reload st anger kids. KILL EM ALL! KZbin Moscow 91

[@jjayala]

The way he describes being raw in early sobriety. Remembering that feeling keeps me sober to this day.

[@iliyaivanov1157]

I`ve always seen him as a wild animal on stage but he is honestly one of the wisest and centered people I`ve heard talk. Family is the only thing that`ll love you even if you`re an intolerable poss but if you go too far its gone forever. Thanks for bringing him on the podcast.

[@schtawww8532]

Good for you James. I'm proud of you. You're still one of my favorite performers/vocalists of all time...want you to stick around a while longer....

[@monkey2god998]

7:32 not just any band, most popular metal band ever, hardest touring band ever. I know he has struggled recently but damn James coming out strong over his addiction is really inspiring. Such a great guy.

[@Turk_2023]

Jerry Cantrell interview please

[@jeremynelson5311]

Bill & Bill`s Gentlemans Club hell yeah

[@themeadowlarkminutewithpau8184]

Please!!!!!!

[@eqx7168]

Yes

[@heidigeebee5870]

Yes!!

[@crab6241]

YES!!!!!

[@joycehubbert4394]

Good on you James Hetfield, I'm so proud of what you have achieved with your life. You have tremendous strength. You have used it for your own good, also your wife & family!!!!!!!

[@placeducinema]

Probably the best influence James Hetfield can ever have on people, right there. As a rock superstar, he's not supposed to say that, to act like that. He's supposed to die in misery. Yet here he is, battling to defeat the cliché, get his life back in order, and having such moments of clarity is awesome. He's still haveing setbacks and needs care, but he's looking for it and doing the work. So he should be ok in the long run. That's the coolest thing about Metallica and James Hetfield. Makes me better for it, too. Provoking deep soul searching. Thank you.

[@firedwnblo7596]

He looks fantastic! Such an inspiration for us blue collar guys who have dealt with the same issues. Can’t wait to see him in Raleigh in January, my first Metallica concert!!

[@KCDW83]

I'll be there too, not my first Metallica show though.

[@calisongbird]

I always enjoy these “how I got clean” stories, everyone loves a good redemption story - it’s as old as time. But serious question: why do we never celebrate as much those who resisted temptation in the first place, despite it being all around them, and never got addicted? Instead, many of us who dare to decline alcohol in a social setting get grilled about “why not?” like we owe anyone an explanation. What IS that??

[@lisafanucchi5939]

James looks great!!! Congratulations!! Im sober 7 months 😊😊😊 I love his voice ❤️❤️❤️

[@jameshetfield6024]

Hey🌹, all love and how are you doing today actually?

[@13htorrespr]

Not a huge fan of JR, but I totally respect and appreciate this interview. James has always been someone I've admired for many years as an artist, his music helped me get through some tough times early on and even more so as an adult...but what I admire the most is James the human being...so honest, so raw, so on-point. There are so many struggles that we can fall under but his story should be a reminder that it's ok to need help, it's ok to reach out, it's ok to let your emotions out...nothing but respect for Mr. James Hetfield...while most of us will never meet him in person, I hope he knows what a positive impact he's had in so many lives...and thanks Mr. Rogan for posting the interview. \m/ 'Tallica fan for ever.

[@Barneyrubble241]

I'm honestly not a big Metallica fan, but I have much respect for this man. I really don't think people understand hard it is to be THAT honest with yourself.

[@TangFiend1]

Hetfield really is the cool dad we all wish we had.

[@drewschrep]

I want to be James' friend. He and I are so alike with the way we talk, our mannerisms and our philosophy on life (especially after getting sober). I always respected him as a musician when the Ride the Lightning album came out when I was in high school. But now my respect for him is for the person he is today, and it's a much deeper level of respect.

[@SsgtHolland]

James saved his family, his band and his own life! This guy has overcome so much shit and has just become stronger and cooler through the years.

[@dawson60901]

James voice is so relaxing

[@franthevan65]

Recovering addict here . Used for 8 years was clean for almost 4 then relapsed once. It fuckin sucks prayers for everyone struggling but you can do it. It is possible to fight this disease you’re harboring inside. 🙏🏻

[@thothtrismegistus4865]

James is such an inspirational person. I had an addiction to opiates for a long long time, my girl knew at the time but I changed everything after my lung partially collapsed. That's was my absolute lowest point in my life being at a hospital... now 5 years off opiates. I feel much better, more alive and more alert. More driven and such. But ever since I hit a big low with me moving to Kentucky. That's when my girl started giving up on me entirely. And I knew she gave up on me initially after I got her a job. But, now shes gone and I now am doing better for myself and proving it to everyone around me. James Hetfield is my inspiration, even if I am alone in the end I know what I want. Cheers to all! How y'all are having an amazing day/night!

[@cammpinno]

I AM SO GLAAAD that James Hetfield has been able to take care of himself and get treated in rehab as many times as needed. Look at him, look at other superstars, look at Maradona. He could have easily ended up like them. He is smart and caring and respectful and respecting, to himself and to those around him. I am so glad he is around and about his ability to get THE RIGHT HELP and keep being around happy and healthy.

[@hatboxghost735]

REAL MUSICIAN, REAL LEGEND. This is someone you could truly look up to, musicians today are not even musicians. This man pioneered a movement, and for as tough as he is, he’s got a heart of gold. Helped me through my addiction, 12 years clean. Favorite show will always be the second sanitarium tour.

[@nahuelmoller]

Joe, get Phil Anselmo on the podcast, please. That would be awesome.

[@alienresearchlab]

James is the man. Think of all the crazy shit he went through fronting the biggest metal band ever. Glad he's still here and healthy. Metallica!

[@LucasPenido]

I literally pray for James every day! I’m too a “Friend of Bob” and know it’s not easy to overcome! Just for today!

[@punishedexistence]

One thing I always admired about James is that he's a no-bullshit kinda guy. Straight up n honest. Good on him he did the right thing for both himself and his family.

[@CPAJayhawk]

Crazy how humble he is... you know he's done it all, but you would never know it by his interviews