It takes a big person to admit he has big problems, and that’s what Joey started to do on tonight’s episode of Real World: Hollywood. It’s been a while since those intense moments were shot, but Joey still remembers them clearly… except now, with a little distance, he’s gained perspective and a better understanding of how things started to unravel so quickly…
Before coming to the Real World, I battled and WON my war with addiction…. or so I thought. I cleaned up my act and was ready for Hollywood, with a stronger mind, body, and heart. I was set to take Hollywood by storm.
I did not take into consideration, however, that the Real World environment is somewhat of a “lockdown” situation. And the other six strangers on lockdown with me just so happened to LOVE partying. That whole party scene was something I had worked very hard get away from in my previous life in Chicago.
At the start of the Real World experience, it seemed as if I could handle the awkwardness of living out of my element. But soon, the CONSTANT pressure to party, the stress of being away from friends and family members, the CLASHING EGOS inside the house, and my persistent need for perfection got the best of me. I crumbled underneath it all.
With Brianna, I didn’t really see a “relationship” happening with us — she was just someone who could relate to me and understand where I was coming from, given her past history of substance abuse. When Brianna appeared to begin disliking me and replacing me with guys like Jo Jo, it hurt me feelings, my pride and my heart.
All of this just blew up and brought back the “Monster” — the thing I refer to that lives deep inside me, and probably deep inside everyone.
Working out, running, boxing, hittin’ the bag, etc. have always been ways for me to vent my anger and my addictions; and in a NORMAL setting, it does work (and has in the past).
I ask that people please do not judge until you watch the entire season. I want you to witness the evolution of a man with addiction and problems. And while you’re watching, ask yourselves this: Are you perfect? Do you not have problems?
Thank you and have a great day! ‘Til next time…
Joey Kovar
Remember that EVERYONE has those same types of issues but few are able to admit it. I have nothing but respect and admiration for you, and I hope you are able to find true happiness in your life and WITH YOURSELF because you deserve it!
-Red
Muahh... keep your head up....
The fact that you beat addiction once means you can do it again. I myself have struggled with addiction and it definitely takes a strong person to overcome it. We all have parts of our psyche that we battle with every day. And in the environment that you were in was definitely not conducive to your health. I hope you've conquered your addictions and portray that on the show. It would definitely affect a lot of people in the best way. Good luck, God Bless.
And did I mention just how adorable your smile is?
Geesh.
Thank you again Joey
Wish you all the best bro.
Anyway, it doesn't matter...the cast is no longer being filmed so all we have to do now is sit back and throw stones in our glass houses.
And to MTV casting: I have to say that with every passing year your seven strangers are becoming more and more one-dimensional and predictable. Yet I keep watching? Cuz it's the car wreck I can't turn away from...
I can definitely understand where you're coming from. Though I will admit I was a little scared when the "monster" came out, so to speak, but who you are sober is what counts and that person seems to be an absolute sweety. When Brianna gave you the cold shoulder with JoJo, I was like what is she thinking?? if she don't want him I'll take him. Just remember you got some Latina chocolate here in South Jersey who'll show you some lovin'!! ^_^ Take care boo
LoL
wow, i cant even imagine what you had to go through must be like.Even though i dont know who you are in reality, im proud and happy to see you winning and overcoming this obsticale.It aint an easy road but you'll make it! Good luck with everything!
The fact that you know you have a problem, have faced it before and won, means it will be so again. Most people don't have the strength or courage you showed, just in releasing your tears that real men aren't supposed to shed. Please don't feel like you are a loser or life isn't worth living. You are touching way too many lives right now to give up on your own without a fight.
Speaking of...I don't care what some might think about Brianna and how she behaved, because all I see is someone who is/has fallen for you and is terrified out of her mind because you both are so much alike and she doesn't know if she can handle both of you facing your demons. The way you two light up around one another and feel so right tells me that if you can just keep growing and holding on you might turn out to be way more to one another than you ever imagined...even if it is the best of friends (although I am hoping for more as I think you are two people who truly deserve to experience a love I don't think you've ever truly had.)
I'm a woman and know what real potential for happiness looks like. You and Bri may think you aren't right for each other because of your repsective baggage but I see it in your eyes how you feel about one another and trying to run or hide from it isn't the answer. You two need each other and I really hope and pray you make it through this bump in life's road. Be blessed.
I'm not judging you. This is just my observation. Although you were the one who chose to live together with 6 strangers and have your life broadcast to the world, so you should expect to get some judgements and observations. Be strong and be smart. Have fun. You should be having fun. But there you are in the heart of Hollywood, all full of drama and emotions. Good luck. I look forward to seeing how you turn out at the end of the season.
This is completely unlike me to reply to or even connect to a website like this however... You are extremely contagious to watch and utterly adorable! Life is consistently full of obstacles / hurdles / bumps / bruises and even scars. Your life will be great... All you have to do is believe in yourself and stay strong. I have gone through and am still dealing with the challenges you face today. Looks and sex appeal aren't everything, inner strength / self discipline, personality, respect and charm is what makes a man & I am sure you have them ALL! Don't ever give up on yourself!!!!! Your family and friends are your biggest supporters keep them closest to your heart! Wishing you the best...
how brave of you to let people see this vulnerable side of you! I've battled some of the same demons you mention. I was in the Atlanta party scene in my 20s and loved it. Once I started tiring of it, I knew something was changing...but it took me a while to realize "I" was what was changing. I was getting tired of it...and what it was doing to me. But it had already realed me in. It took me a long time, but with help and love from my family, I was finaly able to leave it all behind...drugs, friends, and all...and sobered up..and have been clean for 5 years now. I'm proud of you...you seem to be ready to make the changes you need to make in your life. Good luck dude. I'll be keeping up with the show. Stay strong and know you aren't the only one who has had to come face to face with their own "monsters" and win!
-chad
Good luck with everything, you're a sweetheart
~Beth
Oh and if I ever see you around the streets of Boston I'll totally tell you everything I just wrote to reaffirm it...lol. I should be a motivational speaker.
You seem like an amazing guy and any girl will be blessed to have you in their lives. Yes, we have had problems and some of us still are facing situations that we cannot seem let go because our past hunts us or because we hang with the wrong crowd. It is hard to live in a house with 6 other people who party and drink while you are not trying to. Peer pressure is an issue that many people face, but it is up to us to fall in the trap or turn away and move forward. I know your gonna do great things and I know that you will be free from budens that are bringing you down. I once had a problem with drinking as well. I stopped surronding myself with people that will affect me and I let go and I let God work through me. I have now been 4 years free of drinking. I am now 22 yrs old going to school full time and working to succeed in this world. I hope you continue to keep your head up and stay strong.
---Ashanti (Chicago)
- "George Carlin"
P.S. I love you and I think you're hot!
i, too, get very emotional when drunk so i can relate to the feeling of embarrassment the morning after. all i can say is: only god can judge me~***
the dailies clip of you talking about your little brother broke my heart. i think you are a very compassionate, big-hearted person and i wish only the best for you. :)