Keith Urban Reveals Turning Point to Sobriety with Nicole Kidman’s Support

Country music icon Keith Urban recently opened up about the pivotal moment that steered him toward sobriety after a long struggle with drug addiction and alcoholism. In a candid conversation on "The Zane Lowe Show," the 57-year-old star shared the internal battle that haunted him for years, a persistent voice warning him of a final crossroads where he’d either break free or be lost forever.

That defining moment arrived in 2006, shortly after marrying Nicole Kidman. Urban revealed how Kidman orchestrated an intervention that became his fork in the road. "I knew that was it," he said, recognizing the gravity of the choice before him. Now, nearly 19 years sober, Urban described the relief of shedding addiction’s grip, a burden that clashed with his dreams of making music and growing as an artist in America.

Reflecting on his journey, Urban admitted the struggle wasn’t new. After moving to Nashville from Australia, where he’d already found success, he felt like an outsider in the country music scene. Insecurities plagued him off-stage, and a painful breakup deepened his descent into substance abuse during the late ‘90s. Despite career breakthroughs with his 1999 self-titled album, which launched him into stardom, addiction lingered—partly due to denial rooted in comparisons to his alcoholic father.

Urban’s path to recovery wasn’t smooth. Two prior rehab stints failed, but Kidman’s unwavering support during their early marriage proved transformative. Just four months into their union, Urban entered rehab again, this time with a resolve fueled by love and the fear of losing her. "She’s the one I was searching for my whole life," he shared, crediting her for helping him shake off addiction’s chains. Their bond, now approaching 19 years, remains a testament to resilience, as they raise daughters Sunday and Faith together.

Beyond his personal triumph, Urban has become a beacon for others. Country singer Brantley Gilbert credits Urban with saving his life during a dark period of addiction, recalling a pivotal conversation in 2011 that shifted his perspective on sobriety and performance. Urban’s empathy, born from his own fears of losing his craft to sobriety, showed Gilbert a better path—one where he’s now thrived for over a decade.

Urban’s latest album, High, released in September 2024, carries a layered meaning for the artist. He explained that the title reflects a reclaimed sense of euphoria—whether physical, spiritual, or musical. For Urban, the true high comes from the stage, his lifelong safe haven amidst off-stage turmoil. With a touch of dark humor, he acknowledges the word’s past ties to his struggles, but today, it symbolizes family, friends, and the electric connection of live performance.

Keith Urban’s story isn’t just about overcoming addiction; it’s a raw reminder of the power of choice, love, and purpose. From the depths of despair to the heights of a stage, he’s redefined what it means to be high—and that’s a tune worth playing on repeat.