Paris Jackson, 26, celebrates major sobriety milestone as she shares secret heroin addiction battle: ‘Thankful’
Paris Jackson, the 26-year-old daughter of late pop icon Michael Jackson, has revealed a secret battle with heroin and alcohol addiction whilst celebrating five years of sobriety.
The singer-songwriter shared the milestone achievement through an emotional Instagram post on January 7, 2025, detailing her journey from substance abuse to recovery.
In a candid video montage, Jackson offered glimpses of her past struggles with addiction before showcasing her transformation to a healthier lifestyle.
The post marks the first time Jackson has publicly disclosed her previous heroin use, though she had previously spoken about battles with alcohol and mental health.
The revelation comes just weeks after announcing her engagement to music producer Justin Long in December 2024.
In her Instagram video (below), Jackson shared footage of her earlier struggles, including clips of herself drinking from a bottle of Jameson whiskey and appearing visibly distressed.
The montage then transitions to showcase her recovery journey, featuring various sobriety coins marking milestones from one day to multiple years clean.
More recent clips display Jackson pursuing healthier activities, including rock climbing and performing music on stage.
The video includes tender moments with her fiancé Long, showing the couple exploring caves together and sharing intimate moments.
Throughout the footage, Jackson’s transformation is evident as she appears increasingly vibrant and content, spending time with her pets and loved ones.
The video concludes with a heartfelt message thanking those who supported her journey to sobriety.
“Hi, I’m pk and I’m an alcoholic and a heroin addict,” Jackson wrote in her candid post. “Today marks 5 years clean & sober from all drugs and alcohol.”
The singer expressed profound gratitude for her recovery journey, writing: “To say that I’m thankful would be a poor euphemism. Gratitude hardly scratches the surface.”
She reflected on the simple joys of sober living: “It’s because I’m sober that I get to smile today. I get to make music. I get to experience the joy of loving my dogs and cat.”
Jackson emphasised how sobriety has allowed her to fully experience life’s emotions: “I get to feel heartbreak in all its glory.
“I get to grieve. I get to laugh. I get to dance. I get to trust.”
“I’ve found that life keeps happening regardless of whether I’m sober or not, but today I get to show up for it,” she added.
Her post concluded: “I can’t believe I almost missed it all.”
In a 2017 interview with Rolling Stone, Jackson revealed she had attempted suicide “multiple times” by age 15, citing “self-hatred” and “low self-esteem” as contributing factors.
She subsequently attended a therapeutic school in Utah, though she later disclosed in October 2020 that the institution had subjected her to abuse.
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Jackson has been open about her ongoing struggles with PTSD, which she discussed during a 2021 appearance on Red Table Talk.
The singer’s recent sobriety milestone arrives during a period of personal joy, following her December engagement to music producer Long.
The couple, who began dating in 2022, announced their engagement through Jackson’s Instagram, where she shared photos of Long proposing on one knee.
Celebrity friends have rallied to support Jackson’s achievement, with Paris Hilton commenting: “So proud of you sis.” (sic)