Billionaire James Packer candidly reveals mental health struggles in TV interview alongside good friend Robbie Williams: ‘Money is not a guarantee of happiness’

Billionaire James Packer candidly reveals mental health struggles in TV interview alongside good friend Robbie Williams: 'Money is not a guarantee of happiness'

As an ardent admirer of resilience and the human spirit, I find myself deeply moved by the courageous journey of James Packer, a billionaire who dares to share his struggles with mental health. His candid confession that ‘money is not a guarantee of happiness‘ resonates profoundly in today’s materialistic world.


In an upcoming episode of 7NEWS Spotlight, James Packer plans to share openly about his personal struggles with mental health.

As a devoted companion, I find myself in the midst of a conversation alongside my dear friend, renowned English singer Robbie Williams, during our engaging interview with esteemed journalist Liam Bartlett.

In the upcoming episode, set to air on Sunday, Packer admits that wealth doesn’t automatically bring happiness.

‘I’m not here to play the victim … it’s a journey,’ Packer tells Bartlett in the video. 

Instead, you’re talking to someone who claims to have things figured out and knows all the solutions, he went on.

‘I’m not that person. I’m here saying I’m doing my best.’

In a forthcoming discussion, Williams plans to share insights about his personal experiences, mentioning that he identifies with Packer’s challenges.

‘[It’s] the same sort of illness that we share. It’s a disease of isolation’ Williams says. 

Billionaire James Packer candidly reveals mental health struggles in TV interview alongside good friend Robbie Williams: 'Money is not a guarantee of happiness'

Over the past few years, Packer has expressed that he feels more content than ever before, following a weight loss of 25kg over 75 days and discontinuing the use of seven medications previously taken for managing his mental health.

He shared with The Weekend Australian that he currently weighs around 130 kilograms but aims to reduce it to 100 kilograms by the end of 2022. His goal is to enjoy a swim with his kids at Bondi beach when they’re all in Sydney together next year, and he wants to be 100 kilograms then. He was speaking from his home in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, at the time.

The businessman announced that he stopped taking the antidepressants and antipsychotic medications he was given in March, and is now focusing on restoring his name and image in Australia.

In his biography titled “The Price of Fortune: The Hidden Story Behind Being James Packer,” the gaming tycoon opens up about his battles with mental health issues.

Billionaire James Packer candidly reveals mental health struggles in TV interview alongside good friend Robbie Williams: 'Money is not a guarantee of happiness'

In a conversation with biographer and journalist Damon Kitney, the mogul compared himself to Icarus, stating that he had ventured too near the sun. (The Australian)

After the fall of his business empire and prominent relationships, the wealthy individual publicly shares his battles with alcohol addiction.

The book details some of the most challenging periods in his life, including the transition from receiving a vast inheritance to struggling with anxiety and depression, and overcoming this three times after experiencing nervous breakdowns.

There were multiple contributing factors that combined to his downward spiral. 

His high-profile lifestyle was tainted by various scandals. In Israel, there were allegations against him concerning a deal, which raised eyebrows due to his political connections. Meanwhile, in China, he faced complications when officials from the company he directed, Crown Resorts, were arrested for suspected involvement in illegal gambling activities.

His aspirations in the glamorous world of Tinseltown were marred, given the $100 million bankruptcy of his production company RatPac, which he co-founded with Hollywood producer Brett Ratner.

Billionaire James Packer candidly reveals mental health struggles in TV interview alongside good friend Robbie Williams: 'Money is not a guarantee of happiness'
Billionaire James Packer candidly reveals mental health struggles in TV interview alongside good friend Robbie Williams: 'Money is not a guarantee of happiness'

Amidst his deep sadness, Packer confides that he sought solace with his longtime friend Warren Beatty and lived in his guest house for several years. He even began referring to Beatty as ‘Dad,’ but he wants to clarify that this doesn’t diminish his respect for his actual father, Kerry, who played a crucial role in the family’s remarkable business achievements.

Packer boasts an impressive roster of friends, including Robert de Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio, and has long been associated with high-profile circles. For a period, he also explored Scientology, but eventually chose to disassociate from the church, much like many successful actors and actresses have done in the past.

The book describes Packer’s personal torment, drink and mental issues, which the billionaire describes as ‘very scary.’ 

In The Australian, it’s shared that he admitted feeling increasingly anxious due to his issues worsening, leaving me, as a dedicated fan, equally uneasy and concerned.

As a die-hard admirer, I can’t help but be captivated by the intriguing fact that Beatty, who typically shuns media spotlight, graciously agreed to share his thoughts about Packer for the book. This act speaks volumes about the profound respect and affection he holds for this remarkable individual.

The actor played a crucial role in encouraging Packer to reach out for assistance, ultimately connecting him with a highly respected psychiatrist who promptly inquired, “Are you contemplating suicide?”

According to Packer, he may have started sobbing and in his mind, he pondered, “I no longer wish to carry a debt of 1.4 billion dollars. What on earth am I still doing this for?”

The father-of-three said he is now excited to begin his ‘third act’ and plans to ease back into public life in Australia. 

Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14 (24 hours/7 days)

Text Lifeline on 0477 13 11 14 (6pm – midnight, 7 nights)

Chat online at www.lifeline.org.au (7pm – midnight, 7 nights)

Read More

2024-09-03 12:49

Previous post Gavin And Stacey filming! Nessa is back in her trademark leather waistcoat as she and Smithy are FINALLY reunited (but not as you think)
Next post Lottie Moss puts on a leggy display in hotpants and sheer cami top as she continues racy photoshoots just days after reconciliating with half-sister Kate following family rift sparked by her X-rated OnlyFans content