Courtney Stodden breaks down in tears, sharing emotional update on third day of her sobriety journey

Courtney Stodden opens up about sobriety struggle and emotional trauma from past marriage to Doug Hutchison.

Courtney Stodden recently opened up emotionally about her ongoing struggle with sobriety and the painful memories tied to her past, including her marriage to much-older actor Doug Hutchison. In a raw video shared on Thursday, the 30-year-old reality TV star, makeup-free and visibly emotional, revealed she is on day three of her journey to give up alcohol.

Along with physical changes such as breakouts on her face and chest, Stodden said difficult memories from her past are resurfacing, particularly those involving Hutchison, whom she described as her former “groomer.”

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Courtney MF Stodden (@courtneyastodden)

Stodden, a Washington native, shared that Hutchison, 65 at the time of their marriage, consumed large amounts of alcohol daily and pressured her to drink as a way to exert control over her. Determined not to feel "out of control" anymore, Stodden is committed to sobriety despite the challenges. She acknowledged that some friends are uncomfortable with her healthier lifestyle, but remains firm in her decision. “If people don’t get it, then maybe they shouldn’t be around,” she said.

Earlier this week, Stodden told DailyMail.com she is “very happy” with her decision to stop drinking and emphasized how it has improved her mental health. She explained that alcohol was initially an escape from the pressures of fame and trauma, but eventually became a trap that increased her feelings of shame and confusion. “This breakup isn’t just with a substance—it’s with a version of myself I’m ready to leave behind,” she said. Stodden described alcohol as “total toxic ex energy” and expressed her commitment to cutting ties with it for good.

Stodden’s announcement on Instagram on Tuesday was met with support, including from Hugh Hefner’s ex-girlfriend Crystal Hefner and former talk show host Ricki Lake. The model also reflected on her turbulent teenage marriage to Hutchison, whom she married at 16 when he was 51. She called the marriage emotionally abusive and vowed to use her voice to empower other survivors. “I am living life on my own terms now,” Stodden said, highlighting her strength and resilience as she continues her healing journey.

Over the years, Stodden has appeared on reality shows like Couples Therapy, Celebrity Big Brother, and Hollywood Hillbillies, sharing parts of her life with the public.