Footy legend Todd Carney reveals the day he turned his life around after years-long alcohol struggle that saw him throw away his multimillion-dollar career

Footy bad boy Todd Carney has reflected on his incredible turnaround, revealing that he has discovered a renewed sense of purpose since going sober. 

The former NRL star transformed his life after marrying MAFS star Susie Bradley, with the couple welcoming their son Lion Daryl Carney in 2021.

Carney, 38, has been clean and sober since March 24, 2023, and says his decision has ‘deepened my gratitude for life’s simplest moments’.  

‘Choosing to give up alcohol is one of the most transformative decisions I’ve made,’ he wrote on Instagram. ‘It’s a journey that’s redefined my sense of purpose and deepened my gratitude for life’s simplest moments.

‘In sobriety, I’ve found a clearer purpose. Each day, I wake up with a renewed sense of clarity and motivation, no longer clouded by the haze of the previous night’s drink. 

The former footy star has a long history of alcoholism but has transformed his life

‘My goals feel more attainable, my passions more vibrant. Sobriety has given me the focus to pursue what truly matters, to invest in meaningful relationships, and to nurture my physical and mental well-being.’

Carney’s NRL career was chequered with controversy, including being charged with drink driving and reckless driving, allegedly urinating on a man at a nightclub, vandalism, being sacked by the Raiders and banned from his home town of Goulburn, NSW.

That led to him being deregistered by the NRL and forced to play bush footy with far north Queensland side Atherton Roosters, before he was kicked out of the NRL for good after a string of alcohol-related indiscretions including the infamous bubbler that saw him pretend to urinate into his own mouth.

Carney said that ‘each day is a gift’ as he continues to enjoy life with his young family. 

‘Gratitude has become a cornerstone of my journey,’ he said. ‘I’m thankful for the morning sun, for the energy to tackle the day, for the genuine connections I’ve formed without the veil of alcohol. 

He says ‘each day is a gift’ as he enjoys life with his young family

‘I appreciate the quiet moments of reflection, the laughter shared with loved ones, and the peace that comes with a clear mind. 

‘Each day is a gift, and I’m profoundly grateful for the opportunity to live it fully and authentically.’

But Carney admitted that going sober has presented its challenges. 

‘Giving up alcohol hasn’t been easy, but the rewards have been immeasurable,’ he said. 

‘My purpose is now driven by a desire to live fully present, to be the best version of myself, and to cherish the beauty of a sober life. 

‘For this, I am eternally grateful. 24-3-23’.