Louis Theroux’s recent documentary provoked a strong reaction from viewers.
Entitled Drinking To Oblivion, the documentary saw the filmmaker visit the alcoholism unit of King’s College Hospital London to meet addicts in the throes of recovery and relapse.
Many viewers went on Twitter and other internet comments sections after the show aired to express how much the film is had made them more aware of the issue and also to express concern for the subjects.
Watching Louis Theroux #DrinkingToOblivion… So sad and terrifying :'(
— Corinne (@coristarz) May 16, 2016
this is enough to make me want to quit drinking, such sad stories ?❤️ #LouisTheroux #DrinkingToOblivion
— kayleigh (@kayleighsmeeth) May 15, 2016
I LOVE YOU JOE #DrinkingToOblivion
— Nicola Bardon (@NicolaBardon) May 8, 2016
Love @louistheroux documentaries… #DrinkingToOblivion was a really interesting insight into alcoholism. Wishing #joewalker the very best
— Susan. (@susanwxox) April 25, 2016
One participant in the documentary really pulled on views heartstrings. Joe Walker, 32, moved viewers to tears as he was shown walking out of hospital trying to buy vodka. The university medical researcher, who had previously been sober for a number of years, had relapsed resulting in the demise of his relationship and the termination of his employment.
Through tears on the programme he told Louis:
“I don’t want to be a drunk – I am dying as a person.”
Now Louis has caught up with him and reveals that Joe is 8 months sober and has resumed work.
Joe looks happier and healthier and we wish him continued success with his recovery.
Coffee with @joedwalker from my alcohol programme, 8 months sober. Congrats, dude! #beards #aa pic.twitter.com/6MppZSVonO
— Louis Theroux (@louistheroux) June 14, 2016