Ahead of a Wisconsin speaking appearance, actor Ben Vereen talks with Lake Effect about how his acting career was nearly derailed by substance abuse.
"It affected my career to the point where, number one, you’re not reliable; two, you’re not there – people can’t depend on you; and three, it affects your mind," says Vereen.
Ben Vereen won a Tony Award for his stage work and was nominated for an Emmy Award for his role in the miniseries, Roots. Most recently, he’s performed a series of one-man shows.
Later this month, Vereen will speak at an event honoring the 130th anniversary of the Aurora Psychiatric Hospital in Wauwatosa. He will talk about his own substance abuse, addiction and recovery.
