09/24/2026
Hank Azaria and The Life Changing Impact of Recovery
Hank Azaria is an Emmy Award-winning actor, comedian, and voice artist best known for bringing dozens of beloved characters to life on The Simpsons, including Moe Szyslak, Chief Wiggum, Comic Book Guy, and Professor Frink. Beyond animation, he has starred in acclaimed films and television series such as The Birdcage, Ray Donovan, and Brockmire. While his career has been filled with success, Azaria has also been open about his personal journey through alcoholism and the life-changing impact of recovery.
One of the most meaningful parts of his story is the role that the late Matthew Perry played in his sobriety. Azaria has shared, “The night I went into AA, Matthew brought me in. The whole first year I was sober, we went to meetings together… As a sober person, he was so caring and giving and wise, and he totally helped me get sober.” His words are a powerful reminder that recovery is rarely a journey we take alone, and that one person’s compassion can change another person’s life forever.
Rest in peace, Matthew Perry. Your kindness, generosity, and commitment to helping others continue to make a difference through the lives you touched.