Tim Matheson, a distinguished figure in Hollywood with a career spanning decades, recently opened up about his experiences with drugs in the glitzy yet perilous landscape of the entertainment industry. In his new memoir, “Damn Glad to Meet You,” the 76-year-old actor recounts his narrow escape from the clutches of hardcore substance abuse that has claimed the lives of many of his contemporaries. Matheson acknowledges the prevalence of cocaine amidst the vibrant yet toxic culture of Hollywood during the 1970s and early 1980s, a time marked by extravagance and indulgence in recreational drugs. While he admits to experimenting with cocaine, Matheson credits his relatively disciplined approach to the fact that he was not a leading star at the time.
Matheson reflects on how working alongside seasoned stars like Lucille Ball shaped his perspective on professionalism in acting. His experience on the 1968 film “Yours, Mine and Ours” serves as a critical point in his career, highlighting a rigorous work ethic instilled by the formidable actress. He recalls how Ball maintained strict professionalism on set, insisting that everyone involved took their roles seriously. This attitude significantly impacted Matheson, who made a conscious effort to separate his professional obligations from his personal life. In his words: “I worked hard when I worked, and then I’d play but I would never do anything to affect my work.”
What sets Matheson apart is his ability to compartmentalize his life. While many peers succumbed to substance abuse, he maintained a sharp focus on his career. Notably, he contrasts his experience with those of other actors who frequently indulged in drugs before performances. Matheson’s notable roles, including his part in “Animal House,” put him in close proximity to the excesses of his era. This particular film, which featured the late John Belushi, serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life in Hollywood. Belushi’s tragic overdose at the young age of 33 left a lasting impact on Matheson, who grapples with the loss of brilliant talents snuffed out too soon.
Throughout his life and career, Matheson has witnessed the heavy price of fame and substance misuse among his peers, including both Doug Kenney and Chris Farley, who also fell victim to the excesses of their craft. The actor poignantly reflects on the “brilliant, brilliant lights” that were extinguished, eliciting a profound sadness for the untapped potential of those who left this world far too early. Matheson’s journey serves as both a cautionary tale and an inspiring testament to resilience in an industry notorious for its pitfalls.
In an era where substance abuse remains a pressing issue, Matheson’s narrative underscores the importance of a strong work ethic and the value of prioritizing one’s health while navigating the complexities of fame.