Ep 110. DUIs and Dementia: Inside David Cassidy's Secret Troubles
- March 1, 2017
Dr. Phil Show season 15 episode 110 titled "DUIs and Dementia: Inside David Cassidy's Secret Troubles" sheds light on the late actor-singer David Cassidy's struggles with alcoholism, dementia, and his multiple DUI arrests that kept making news before his death. The episode features Barry Rosenthal, a close friend of Cassidy and his longtime attorney and former manager; Jack Osbourne, who has a family history of addiction and lost his father to the disease; and Debbie Gibson, Cassidy's former co-star and collaborator.
The show begins with a video tribute to Cassidy's illustrious career, including clips from his role in the hit TV series "The Partridge Family" that made him a teen idol and further his successful music career. Dr. Phil McGraw then introduces his guests and talks about his personal connection to Cassidy, having lost his own friend to alcoholism.
Rosenthal shares the heart-wrenching truth of Cassidy's condition, stating how the actor was already struggling with alcohol addiction when he was arrested for DUI in 2010. Cassidy was on probation that required him to complete community service and attend alcohol education classes, but he didn't comply with the terms of his probation. Instead, he was arrested again for DUI in 2013, making headlines for the second time. Cassidy's third DUI arrest in 2014 was the lowest point of his life, according to Rosenthal. He faced five years in prison and had to undergo court-ordered rehab.
McGraw then asks Osbourne about his father's addiction and how it affected his own life. Osbourne talks about his own struggle with addiction and how he turned his life around. He emphasizes that addiction is a disease, and it's essential to seek help and support. Osbourne urges viewers to pay attention to their loved ones and seek help if they notice symptoms of dementia, memory loss, or addiction.
Gibson then shares her memories of working with Cassidy and how his charming personality could inspire anyone. She reveals how Cassidy opened up to her about his alcohol addiction and the fear of rejection that haunted him. She recalls how Cassidy was devastated when he found out about his dementia diagnosis in 2015 and how he became more withdrawn from the public. Gibson says how she tried to reach out to him but couldn't, and his death left her feeling heartbroken.
The show then focuses on the legal consequences of DUIs, with attorney Areva Martin joining as a guest. Martin explains the legal ramifications of drunk driving and how it can ruin the offender's life, not to mention the lives of others on the road. She also stresses that getting treatment for addiction is the only way to break the cycle of DUIs.
The show concludes with a heartfelt tribute to Cassidy and a message to the viewers to seek help if they're struggling with addiction or mental illness. McGraw encourages people to talk about their problems openly and seek professional help as soon as possible. The episode ends with a clip of Cassidy performing his famous hit "I Think I Love You," a fitting tribute to the star who touched the lives of many during his lifetime.
In summary, Dr. Phil Show season 15 episode 110 sheds light on David Cassidy's struggles with alcoholism, dementia, and multiple DUI arrests. The show features personal stories from close friends and colleagues of Cassidy, emphasizing the importance of seeking help for addiction and mental illness. It gives a powerful message on the legal consequences of DUIs and urges viewers to seek treatment and support as early as possible. The episode ends with a touching tribute to Cassidy's legacy as a talented actor, singer, and friend to many.
