Bam Margera Finds Sobriety Through Skateboarding: 'I Need It or I'll Die'

Bam Margera, the once wild child of MTV's Jackass and Viva La Bam, has found a lifeline in the very thing that first made him a star: skateboarding. After a tumultuous journey through addiction, with 13 rehab stints totaling over three years, Margera is approaching two years of sobriety. He credits his rediscovered passion for skating as the cornerstone of his recovery.

In a candid chat, Margera revealed, "I don’t need medication—skateboarding is my medicine. Landing just one trick a day keeps my head straight." This comes after years of personal lows, including the heartbreaking loss of his best friend and co-star Ryan Dunn in a 2011 car crash, which spiraled him into a darker place. His struggles even led to his exclusion from Jackass Forever in 2022, severing ties with many former castmates.

Physical setbacks compounded his challenges. "In 2013, doctors told me my legs were like dry-rotted rubber bands from alcohol abuse," Margera shared. Yet, with the support of his wife, a stretch coach, he’s revitalized his body. "My 45-year-old legs feel 22 again," he said with renewed vigor. Daily skating has not only restored his muscle memory but also his spirit, despite painful falls—like breaking his wrist for the 15th time.

A near-fatal health scare involving COVID, pneumonia, and multiple seizures was the final wake-up call. "I woke up after eight days on life support and knew I had to change," he recalled. Skateboarding became his anchor, pulling him back from the brink. "I need it in my life, or I’ll die," he stated bluntly. "Without passion, you lose purpose, and boredom leads to drugs. I can’t let myself get bored."

Adding to his comeback, Margera is now a playable character in the reboot of Tony Hawk Pro Skater 3 + 4, a serendipitous opportunity that came from a casual hangout with Hawk himself. Celebrating the game’s release at Complex LA, he mingled with fans, competed in high-score challenges, and reflected on the honor. "Being in the game gives skaters street cred—even an 80-year-old grandma might recognize me now," he quipped.

Margera’s story is one of grit and redemption, proving that sometimes, rolling back to your roots can save your life.