“I was in a very dark phase. I drank excessively during lunch breaks. It was a destructive habit,” said the 67-year-old actor, admitting that although he managed to get through the scene that followed, he was clearly under the influence of alcohol. “The next day, I went to Demi and said, ‘Sorry, you must hate me.’ I was devastated by my unprofessional behavior. And she replied, ‘I don’t hate you. I’m just disappointed.’

In a previous interview with the Los Angeles Times in 2021, Oldman had candidly described his daily life as an addict: “When I drank, I worked and remembered my lines, so I thought I had control. But deep down, I knew. I’d tell the bartender, ‘Bring me a large vodka tonic, and do it now because I’m an alcoholic. I need it quickly.’

He also admitted that he had “romanticized” his addiction, citing favorite writers and poets such as F. Scott Fitzgerald and Dorothy Parker, who also struggled with substance abuse. “All my heroes drank or were opiate users. And I became emotional about these stories of poets, playwrights, and actors,” he said.

He continued: “I smelled vodka. It was part of me. I’d wake up in the morning with a black tongue and say it was the shampoo’s fault,” ending with: “I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy. It’s hell.”

Despite the difficulties he faced, Gary Oldman managed to pick himself up again and build an impressive career, with roles that established him as one of the most important actors of his generation. His relationship with Demi Moore, in particular, was not long-term affected by the incident, as the two have maintained a good relationship since.