Alex Van Halen Opens Up About Eddie Van Halen’s Struggles with Addiction in a New Interview
In a recent exclusive interview with Rolling Stone, Alex Van Halen, the brother of legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen, shared deep insights into Eddie’s battle with addiction prior to his death in 2020. Eddie, who passed away after a long fight with cancer, reportedly became dependent on prescription steroid pills, which were initially meant to reduce swelling after brain surgery. According to Alex, Eddie took excessive doses because the medication made him feel “like Superman.” This candid conversation marks Alex’s first public interview since Eddie’s passing.
Reflecting on his brother’s battle, Alex recalled how Eddie would often take far more than the prescribed amount of pills, saying their mantra was, “If two’s good, 20’s better.” Alex also touched on the unconventional and sometimes dangerous treatments Eddie pursued to fight his illness. He mentioned how the combination of these treatments and his brother’s habit of drinking made the situation even worse. “He fought until the end,” Alex stated, defending Eddie’s resilience in the face of a harrowing illness.
The loss of Eddie Van Halen had a profound impact on Alex, who described the emotional toll as “oceanic grief.” He admitted to having an overwhelming response of anger and sorrow after Eddie’s passing. “I was yelling and screaming. I just miss him,” Alex shared, explaining how difficult it has been to cope with the loss of his older brother and musical partner. Eddie’s absence continues to leave a void in Alex’s life, both personally and professionally.
In the interview, Alex also revealed how Eddie remained dedicated to his craft even in his final days. While undergoing experimental cancer treatments in Switzerland, Eddie continued to work on music, although Alex admitted the quality of the work had diminished. Nonetheless, Eddie’s determination to create, regardless of his declining health, reflected his lifelong passion for music. “That’s what he did,” Alex said, honoring his brother’s unwavering dedication to his art.
This exclusive interview comes ahead of the release of Alex’s memoir, Brothers, which is set to hit shelves later this month. The book delves into the Van Halen brothers’ shared experiences, from growing up together to becoming world-famous rock stars. Alex reminisced about their journey, noting how they shared everything from their childhood to their music careers, as well as their battles with addiction and personal struggles. The memoir promises to offer a closer look at their bond, from their early days as immigrants in America to their rise to fame.
Brothers is scheduled for release on October 22, 2024, and is available for pre-order. The book is expected to be a heartfelt tribute to the iconic duo’s journey through music, success, and the personal battles that shaped their lives.
