Kevin Kennedy: Coronation Street, Alcohol & Fame - From Soap Star to Recovery Leader

In this episode of Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma, Matt is joined by Kevin Kennedy - actor and musician best known for playing Curly Watts for 20 years on ITV’s long-running soap Coronation Street, and now director of Kennedy Street recovery services.Kevin reflects on his very public battle with alcohol addiction and how active recovery over the last 25 years has reshaped his life, identity and purpose. He talks about the strange reprieve of playing a much-loved character while privately struggling, and how denial, shame and pressure played into his drinking.Now an advocate for recovery, Kevin dedicates much of his time to peer-led support, signposting and providing coaching for individuals, families and organisations through Kennedy Street. Together, Matt and Kevin explore what healthy, sustainable sobriety looks like in real life  beyond headlines and celebrity narratives.The conversation also touches on Kevin’s love of music and musical theatre, hidden gigs in the Manchester scene, and how creativity and service both play a role in long-term recovery.In this episode:Kevin’s history of alcoholism and entering recovery 25 years agoLife as Curly Watts on Coronation Street and hiding addiction in plain sightThe founding and mission of Kennedy Street recovery servicesWhy peer support, asking for help and community are vitalMusical theatre, Manchester’s hidden gigs and creative identity in recoveryPractical advice for people questioning their relationship with alcoholHow to live a healthy, sober life with purpose and connectionSearch terms: Kevin Kennedy recovery, Coronation Street actor alcoholism, alcohol recovery podcast UK, peer support in addiction, Kennedy Street charity, lived experience stories, trauma and recovery.Click here to text our host, Matt, directly!🎧  If this episode connected with you, please subscribe and review. It directly helps us reach more people affected by addiction, trauma and stigma. 🔗 Then share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!Browse the full archive at 👉 www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com Believe in People is a platform for lived experience, recovery insight and honest conversation. Whether you’re in recovery, supporting someone who is, or working on the frontline, this podcast exists to inform, challenge stigma and inspire change.If you or someone you know needs support with drugs, alcohol, housing, domestic abuse, or mental and physical wellbeing, free and confidential help is available via Change Grow Live:📩 Contact: [email protected]🎵 Music: “Jonathan Tortoise” - Christopher Tait (Belle Ghoul / Electric Six)Listen & Subscribe:Spotify | Apple Podcasts🎙️ Facilitator: Matthew Butler 🎛️ Producer: Robbie Lawson 🏢 Network: ReNew