Home
search
more | tips

7 January 2009 5:24 PM, PST | From wenn.com | See recent WENN news

Former U.S. sitcom star Willie Aames is battling back after surviving a suicide attempt on Thanksgiving Day.

The 46-year-old Charles in Charge actor took a cocktail of alcohol and pills and slashed his throat after suffering a breakdown in Los Angeles.

In an interview with Star magazine, Aames reveals he hit rock bottom after he was declared bankrupt; had his car repossessed, and his wife of 22 years, Maylo, asked for a divorce - all within the space of a month.

He fled their Kansas home, rented a room in Los Angeles, and made an attempt on his life.

Aames reveals, "I stole a bottle of Jack Daniel's from the guy I was renting the room from. I'd been sober for 20 years when I took that first drink. I was also taking anti-depressants and anti-anxiety pills. It got so bad, I put a knife to my throat and cut myself in six places.

"The police came, put me in handcuffs and whisked me away. I was completely devastated. I kept asking, 'What did I do wrong?'"

Aames spent time in a California psychiatric ward, but is now out and attempting to start a new life as a furniture builder.

He tells Star, "I hope I can inspire other people with my experiences."

Report a problem


Similar News Items

Willie Aames
"Charles in Charge" (1984)


See entire list of NewsDesk partners


IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles. News articles are published for the entertainment of our users only. The news items do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the site responsible for the article in question to report any concerns you may have.