Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media, Inc.
During a recent appearance on “The Zane Lowe Show,” 51-year-old Academy Award winner Jared Leto candidly discussed his early introduction to illicit substances and how, as he got older, he allowed them to take control of his life.
Jared Leto shared that he grew up in an environment where drugs were prevalent, and he was exposed to them from a young age. He reminisced about recognizing the smell of marijuana as a very young child. Leto recalled an incident during his early school years, around the fourth grade, when he walked by some bushes and could identify that someone was smoking marijuana. At that time, many of his peers were unaware of what marijuana was, but for Leto and his friends, it seemed relatively normal.
He went on to explain that his initial curiosity about drugs eventually developed into a dependence on them. This journey from curiosity to dependency is a narrative often encountered by individuals who have struggled with substance abuse.
Jared Leto acknowledged his enduring interest in drugs and experiences during his conversation with Zane Lowe. He admitted to being intrigued by drugs and was drawn to the idea of taking risks and exploring new territory.
He explained that for those who enjoy experimenting and exploring, this curiosity about drugs and experiences is not uncommon. However, Leto emphasized the distinction between trying drugs and becoming addicted to them. He acknowledged that he initially took drugs as an experiment and for the experience but admitted that at some point, drugs began to take control of his life. In his own words, he said, “I took it for a ride, and then it took me for a ride for sure,” highlighting the transformative and sometimes destructive nature of addiction.
Jared Leto opened up about reaching a point in his life where he recognized the need for change. He described experiencing a moment of clarity, an epiphany, during which he confronted two potential paths he could take in life. Leto chose the path of change and transformation.
In a poignant reflection, Leto mentioned that he had friends who faced similar crossroads but did not choose the path of change and recovery. Sadly, some of those friends are no longer alive, underscoring the serious and often life-threatening consequences of addiction.
Leto’s journey toward recovery and his willingness to address these challenges can serve as an inspiration to others who may be struggling with addiction.
Jared Leto has often spoken about his upbringing and the influence of his single mother, Constance “Connie” Leto, on his life. He has expressed deep gratitude for her impact.
In a 2014 interview with Focus Features, Leto described his childhood, which was filled with exposure to artists, musicians, photographers, painters, and people involved in theater. He emphasized the communal and artistic environment in which he was raised, highlighting that there was no strict boundary between different forms of artistic expression. Instead, his family celebrated creative experiences and encouraged creative expression without trying to limit or suppress it. This upbringing undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping Leto’s artistic and creative sensibilities.
