What happens when fame arrives before you know who you are… and then disappears? In this episode of Psychology, Actually, I’m joined by 90s pop star Kavana (Anthony Kavanagh) to explore the psychology of fame, addiction, identity and recovery.

We talk openly about the reality behind the spotlight - from chart success and public adoration to addiction, shame, and rebuilding a life when everything changes.Anthony shares his journey into sobriety, what recovery really looks like day-to-day, and how writing his memoir became part of that healing process.

If you’ve ever wondered about the emotional cost of success, or what it takes to come back from rock bottom, this is a powerful and honest conversation.

Check out Anthony Kavanagh's brilliant book, Pop Scars, a memoir on fame, addiction and the darker side of 90's pop: https://amzn.to/3O2R8fh

This episode is sponsored by WriteUpp the online practice management software I use in my own practice. To grab a 30 day free trial & 30% off for 60 months for up to 6 users use code Marianne30 here: https://writeupp.com/?refid=142336

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 Fame vs reality – what we don’t see
01:42 Writing a memoir during recovery
03:23 Pain vs humour in storytelling
05:23 Early life and first job
08:13 Getting discovered and becoming Kavana
10:38 First experiences of fame13:04 Identity, sexuality and performance
15:45 Pressure of maintaining a persona
20:54 When things started to shift
24:39 Losing momentum and public attention
26:14 Alcohol as coping
29:01 Hollywood years and escape
31:06 Addiction, denial and rock bottom
33:41 Loss of control and blackouts
37:17 Loose Women interview experience
39:01 4 years sober – what recovery looks like
41:00 Daily practices and staying well
42:42 Being sober in social spaces
44:30 Rebuilding identity without alcohol
47:39 Life now, creativity and future plans

Links:

📲 Connect with Anthony Kavanagh here: https://www.instagram.com/kavana_real/

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