Anne Hathaway recently shared insights into her journey of sobriety and personal growth at the New York City premiere of her new film, The Idea of You, per the LATimes. The acclaimed actress, who publicly announced her decision to quit drinking in 2019, celebrated reaching over five years of sobriety, marking it as a significant personal milestone.

In an intimate discussion on “The Jennifer Hudson Show” and “The Interview” podcast by the New York Times, Hathaway expressed a profound sense of gratitude for the steps she took to focus on her wellbeing, especially as a parent. “I'm really grateful to just have been able to take the step that I needed,” Hathaway told ET's Rachel Smith at the film debut. The Princess Diaries star also acknowledged that turning 40 felt less about reaching middle age and more about appreciating life's unpredictability. “Forty feels like a gift,” she explained, emphasizing the importance of living in the moment.

From Stress to Gratitude: A Shift in Perspective

Throughout her career, Hathaway has navigated the highs and lows of Hollywood, facing undue criticism after her Oscar win for Les Misérables in 2013. These experiences contributed to a chronic stress that once overshadowed her early successes in films like Brokeback Mountain and The Dark Knight Rises. Reflecting on those times, Hathaway shared how she learned to cherish her achievements rather than take them for granted. “You are not going to die stressed,” she reminded herself during moments of intense pressure.

The conversation also veered into Hathaway's past drinking habits, which she indicated were partly a coping mechanism for dealing with discomfort and stress. “I probably drank as a way to deal with not feeling comfortable in my own body,” she admitted, noting the alienation she felt. However, a significant turning point came when she realized the need for a more compassionate approach towards herself. “I was just stuck in this feeling… It’s that thing about, ‘I want to achieve things, I want to grow,’ and you think, mistakenly, that the way you do that is to be really hard on yourself,” Hathaway recounted.

The actress's decision to stop drinking emerged from a desire to be fully present for her family, especially her sons. During her 2019 appearance on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” Hathaway revealed her commitment to abstain from alcohol while her son lived at home, a pledge she continues to uphold as part of her dedication to her family and herself.

Looking Ahead with Optimism

As Hathaway promotes The Idea of You, her narrative is one of overcoming and transformation, driven by a deep-seated appreciation for the life she leads. Her journey is not just about abstaining from alcohol but embracing a lifestyle that prioritizes health, awareness, and gratitude.

Anne Hathaway's candid revelations provide a heartfelt look into the life of someone who has navigated tremendous public scrutiny and personal challenges, emerging with a renewed commitment to wellness and authenticity. As she steps into new roles—both onscreen and in life—her story remains an inspiring testament to the power of resilience and transformation.