Three years. That’s how long actor Dean McDermott has been living clean and sober, and he’s not keeping it quiet. The Hollywood veteran recently shared a video on Instagram celebrating the milestone—calling himself“Clean Dean”and radiating the kind of genuine joy that comes from winning a fight most people don’t survive.
What makes his announcement resonate isn’t just the personal victory, though that’s real. It’s his directness about the path that got him here. McDermott didn’t sugarcoat the journey. He credited his family, friends, his sponsor, his fellowship, and a 12-step program—but the catalyst? Surrender. He admits it started with a choice to ask for help, which he calls the best decision he’s ever made.
His substance abuse struggles are well-documented. He entered rehab back in 2014, but the serious turning point came around 2023, roughly when his marriage to Tori Spelling ended. That timing matters. Sometimes rock bottom and new beginnings arrive at the same address. The rages fueled by alcohol that once frightened his family are now in the rearview mirror. Today, he’s rebuilding relationships with his children and staying civil with Spelling—proof that sobriety isn’t just about stopping something; it’s about starting again.
What’s striking is how McDermott used his platform. Rather than keeping his achievement private, he opened the door for others. His message was direct: If you’re stuck, reach out. Hell has an exit. Those aren’t corporate platitudes; they’re lifelines thrown from someone who knows what the climb feels like. The fact that he and Spelling recently reunited for their daughter Stella’s high school graduation shows the practical payoff of his work—not perfection, but the possibility of moving forward together.
Celebrating three years sober isn’t about looking backward with regret. It’s about standing in the present—present with his kids, present with his choices—and showing others that redemption isn’t fiction. It’s a choice you can make today.
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.