“This is the way rock stars die.” The Who’s Pete Townshend reveals recent addiction to painkillers
Pete Townshend, legendary guitarist of The Who, has revealed he recently struggled with a relapse into addiction following knee surgery earlier this year.
Now 80, Townshend has faced various substance issues throughout his decades-long career, but had been clean for over 30 years before becoming dependent on prescription painkillers during his post-surgery recovery.
Speaking to The New York Times, Townshend shared: “I went through a period of feeling very depressed. And when I had the knee operation early this year, I got re-addicted to painkillers. This is the way rock stars die—OxyContin.”
He credited a friend working at a recovery clinic in Spain for helping him get back on track. “I called a close friend… and he got my head sorted out. I’m feeling really good at the moment,” he said.
The Who are currently touring North America with their The Song Is Over farewell tour. However, Townshend says the future of the band remains uncertain.
“It’s in Roger’s hands,” he noted, referring to bandmate Roger Daltrey. “If we don’t extend the tour, would we be in breach of contract? Would we be in swindle-land if we came back?”
Reflecting on life at 80, Townshend added: “I don’t like being away from my family, my studios, my dogs, and my friends. I’m not looking to spend the next five years of my life waiting to drop dead on the stage.”
About Post Author
