If you’re a fan of “Supernatural” or “Gilmore Girls,” you probably know Jared Padalecki as the charming and rugged actor who stole many hearts on screen.
But recently, Jared shared something incredibly personal and important that goes way beyond his acting chops. He talked about his struggles with mental health almost a decade ago.
The Dark Days of 2015
In a candid chat on the “I’ve Never Said This Before With Tommy DiDario” podcast, Jared revealed a tough chapter from his life.
Back in 2015, things got pretty dark for him. He faced serious suicidal thoughts, something he’s now openly talking about to help others who might be going through similar struggles.
“It was a really low moment,” Jared said, recounting how the pressures of his acting career were weighing heavily on him.
He called his wife, Genevieve, in a moment of crisis. Her response? “Get home.” And that’s exactly what he did.
He checked into a mental health clinic for a few weeks, and since then, he hasn’t had suicidal thoughts.
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A Look Back at His Career
For those who might not know, Jared’s acting journey started in 1999 with a small film called “A Little Inside.”
He quickly made a name for himself with roles in “ER,” “Young MacGyver,” “New York Minute,” and “Flight of the Phoenix.”
But it was his role as Dean Forester in “Gilmore Girls” from 2000 to 2005 that really put him on the map.
Then, of course, he became Sam Winchester on “Supernatural,” a role that lasted 15 years and built a huge fanbase.
Off-screen, Jared’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges.
He’s been open about his struggles with depression and anxiety, bravely sharing his story to help destigmatize mental health issues.
In 2021, Jared took on a new challenge, stepping into the iconic role of Cordell Walker in the reboot of “Walker, Texas Ranger,” simply titled “Walker.”
The show offers a fresh take on the classic series, with Jared bringing his unique blend of intensity and warmth to the role.
Despite the pressures and setbacks, including a serious car accident in 2022 that temporarily sidelined him, Jared’s resilience and dedication have never wavered.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jared is a devoted husband and father.
He married his former “Supernatural” co-star Genevieve Cortese in 2010, and the couple has three beautiful children together.
The Ongoing Battle with Mental Health
Even with such a stellar career, Jared admits that dealing with mental health is an ongoing journey. “There are highs and lows,” he said.
Recently, he’s been dealing with the cancellation of “Walker,” a show where he was not just the star but also an executive producer.
This hit him hard. “Today’s a low,” he admitted, expressing his sadness about the show’s end.
“Walker,” a contemporary reboot of the classic “Walker, Texas Ranger,” first aired in January 2021 and enjoyed a solid run before the network decided not to renew it for a fifth season.
The show’s cancellation came as a surprise to many fans who had grown attached to its fresh take on the original series.
Jared’s involvement in “Walker” was more than just professional; it was personal.
He had invested significant time and energy into developing the show, which made the network’s decision even harder to accept.
The CW acknowledged Jared and the entire team for their dedication and hard work, but the reality of the show’s end remains a difficult adjustment for him.
Beyond “Walker,” Jared has faced other professional and personal challenges, yet he continues to remain open about his mental health journey.
Gratitude and Reflection
Despite this setback, Jared took to Instagram to express his gratitude for the #WalkerFamily.
“We are SO thankful for the #WalkerFamily that has been built,” he wrote.
He reflected on the honor of being part of the cast and crew and the joy of connecting with fans.
A Call to Seek Help
One of the most powerful parts of Jared’s interview was his call for others to seek help if they’re struggling with their mental health.
He proudly shared that he sought therapy and treatment.
“I know I’ll be fine because I’m talking to you about it,” he said, urging others to find someone to talk to, whether it’s a friend or a professional.
A Mindset for the Future
Jared also shared a valuable piece of wisdom that helps him navigate life’s ups and downs: “we’ll see.” It’s a simple yet profound way of keeping an open mind about the future.
“Something seems great, might not, we‘ll see. Something seems terrible, we’ll see,” he explained. This mindset has helped him a lot, especially in tough times.
Celebrities Opening Up About Mental Health Struggles
In recent years, many actors and singers have bravely shared their battles with mental health, shedding light on an often-stigmatized issue.
Demi Lovato has been vocal about her struggles with bipolar disorder, addiction, and eating disorders, using her platform to advocate for mental health awareness.
Actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has spoken openly about his bouts with depression, highlighting the importance of seeking help and breaking the stigma.
Similarly, Lady Gaga has shared her experiences with PTSD and chronic pain, founding the Born This Way Foundation to support mental wellness.
Justin Bieber has also discussed his battles with anxiety and depression, encouraging his fans to prioritize mental health.
These celebrities are using their influence to foster a more open dialogue about mental health, proving that no one is immune to these challenges and that seeking help is a sign of strength.
Jared Padalecki’s Career Highlights
| Year | Accomplishment | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Film Debut | Appeared in “A Little Inside” |
| 2000-2005 | Breakout Role | Portrayed Dean Forester in “Gilmore Girls” |
| 2005-2020 | Iconic Role | Played Sam Winchester in “Supernatural” |
| 2021-2024 | Lead Role and Executive Producer | Starred in and produced “Walker” |
Conclusion
- Jared Padalecki’s journey through fame and personal struggles serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and seeking help when needed.
- His openness about battling suicidal thoughts and navigating the highs and lows of his career highlights the universal nature of mental health challenges.
- As Jared continues to process the cancellation of “Walker,” he remains grounded by the support of his wife, children, friends, and family.
- “Today’s a hard day. It’s been a hard month since we found out [about Walker], but I’m in a great place with my wife, our children, my friends, my family,” he said.
- His message is clear: no matter how tough things get, seeking help and being open about your struggles can lead to better days.
- So, if you or someone you know is struggling, remember Jared’s story. It’s a reminder that it’s okay to seek help and that brighter days are possible, even after the darkest nights.