Nick Kroll Chronicles the Brutal Lead-Up to John Mulaney’s Drug Intervention

I suppose someone needs me to break this down: Nick Kroll has just shared an emotional account of the brutal moments that forced his friend John Mulaney into a lifesaving drug intervention. If you haven’t been following every late-night talk show and celebrity profile this year, don’t worry—I’ve got the full rundown.
Nick Kroll first opened up on The Howard Stern Show (as reported by People Magazine) about noticing subtle changes in John’s behavior during the pandemic lockdown. He explains that what started as missed text messages and canceled FaceTime calls soon escalated into full-blown disappearances. According to Variety’s interview recap, Kroll realized something was seriously wrong when he and a handful of close pals couldn’t rouse John after multiple knock-knock texts, nor could they reach him by phone.
That’s when Kroll says he and a small squad of friends staged an intervention so intense it still haunts him. He recalls racing to John’s New York City apartment “in the dead of night,” pounding on the door and demanding answers. “It was brutal,” Kroll confided. “We laid out every sign: empty pill bottles, texts from concerned colleagues, wires crossed in his brain telling him he was invincible. We basically dragged him out of his own darkness.” That night culminated in calling 911 when John slumped to the floor—an indisputable red flag that this was no ordinary comic burnout.
People Magazine confirms that this emergency call became the turning point. John Mulaney, who’d already battled addiction on camera during his 2020 Netflix special, finally agreed to enter a Connecticut treatment facility. Kroll’s voice cracked as he admitted feeling equal parts relief and guilt: relief that his friend was safe, guilt that it took a near-tragedy to admit help was needed.
For context, John’s 2021 admission to rehab marked his third formal stint at recovery, but friends tell BuzzFeed News this felt different. He seemed determined rather than resigned, likely because he’d physically hit rock bottom in ways words can’t fully capture. Kroll’s recollection isn’t just a gossip-y sound bite; it’s a raw reminder of how addiction can quietly tighten its grip on even the brightest stars.
So, there you have it—every emotional high and gut-wrenching low, spelled out because clearly you needed it. Stay tuned to see how John Mulaney’s journey shapes his upcoming stand-up tour and Netflix special. Glad I could illuminate the dark corners for you.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, Variety, BuzzFeed News
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed