Riverdale’s KJ Apa speaks about Cole Sprouse punching him over drug use
Actor KJ Apa has opened up about his past struggles with drug addiction and eating disorders during his time on the show 'Riverdale'. He credited his former co-star Cole Sprouse with intervening during a low point and noted that becoming a father helped him achieve sobriety.
Why it matters
The interview sheds light on the mental health challenges faced by young actors in high-pressure entertainment environments.
KJ Apa speaks about addiction and eating disorders on the Wildmen podcast.
Kiwi actor KJ Apa has detailed his previous struggles with addiction and eating disorders in a candid new interview.
In an appearance on the Wildmen podcast, Apa told hosts Dylan Sprouse and Brendan Columbus his drug use had caused tension with his loved ones.
Apa starred in Riverdale opposite Dylan’s brother Cole Sprouse, admitting his co-star had given him a “love punch” out of concern for his wellbeing, People reported.
“He hit me because we were in a strip club and, at this time, I was doing a lot of drugs and a lot of my close friends were worried about me,” he said.
Dylan, who was there at the time of the altercation, described the moment as “kind of a wake-up punch”.
The former Shortland Street actor agreed, calling the act of violence “caring”.
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