John Mulaney would undoubtedly be the first to acknowledge his remarkable journey thus far. In a recent heartfelt share on the "Where Everybody Knows Your Name" podcast on May 21, the former "Saturday Night Live" writer recounted a pivotal moment in his sobriety journey, one that underscored his progress while supporting his wife, Olivia Munn, through her own battle with breast cancer.
"I vividly recall a day when she was lying in bed, post her 10-hour double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery, with more challenges ahead," recounted John, now 42, to Ted Danson. "I carried in a tray with apple juice, a dish her mom had prepared that she longed for, along with Oxycodone, nerve medication, and a Xanax—all prescribed for her rest and recovery."
"As I walked, it dawned on me, 'It never even crossed my mind that I was holding these medications,'" continued John, who has been open about his struggles with alcohol and cocaine addiction. "The obsession was a distant memory. I thought, 'How far I've come. I can be a proficient caretaker, the ultimate butler to my beloved client.'"
John, who shares the joys of parenting with Olivia through their children, Malcolm, 3, and Mei, 8 months, also expressed astonishment at his ability to stay committed to his sober lifestyle amidst his wife's cancer diagnosis, which coincided with just three years into his sobriety.
"I must confess, it's a monumental transformation," added the host of "Everybody's Live." "A profound shift in perspective. And I'm amazed at my resilience. That I could embark on this journey of sobriety and stick to it, without any backtracking. There's no stigma in relapse, but I'm continually astounded by my progress."
For John, his sobriety allowed him to be fully present for Olivia, who bravely shared her diagnosis in 2023, and their children as she navigated through multiple surgeries. "I've always been somewhat addicted to the discipline it demands," he shared. "And I'm incredibly grateful to be fully present with my kids, Olivia, and friends in every moment."
While John views his recovery with pride, it fades in comparison to the immense admiration he holds for his wife and her unwavering strength during her health crisis. "Reflecting on her diagnosis in April and throughout that challenging year, Olivia was not just courageous—she was joyful," he said. "We shared so many laughter-filled moments, it was surreal. Her courage was unparalleled, but she also remained her authentic, vibrant self throughout."
