Dr. David Drew Pinsky, most famously known as Dr. Drew, has become a prominent figure in American media as a trusted voice on health, addiction, and relationships. For decades, he has bridged the gap between medicine and media, offering guidance and insights to millions through his radio and television platforms. But beyond his media persona, Dr. Drew is a highly qualified and practicing physician, deeply rooted in the medical community.
Born on September 4, 1958, in Pasadena, California, Dr. Drew’s path to medicine was influenced early by his father, a physician himself. He grew up in a medical household, even accompanying his father on house calls, which solidified his ambition to pursue a career in medicine. He attended the prestigious Polytechnic High School in Pasadena, where he not only excelled academically but also showcased leadership as class president and athleticism as a football player. Continuing his academic journey, Dr. Drew pursued a Biology major at Amherst College in Massachusetts, graduating in 1980. His California roots called him back, and he enrolled at the University of Southern California’s School of Medicine, earning his M.D. in 1984. He completed his residency at Huntington Memorial Hospital in Pasadena, where he was honored with the appointment of chief resident, demonstrating his early promise and dedication to his medical career.
Dr. Drew’s commitment to medicine extends beyond his media work. He is board certified in both internal and addiction medicine, highlighting his expertise in these critical areas of healthcare. He maintains a private practice in Pasadena, focusing on patients aged 60 and above, and also contributes to patient care at Las Encinas Hospital. His academic contributions include his role as Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the Keck USC School of Medicine, where he shares his knowledge and experience with future generations of doctors. His dedication to the field is further underscored by his memberships in esteemed professional societies, including the American College of Physicians and the American Society of Addiction Medicine.
Dr. Drew’s journey into media began in 1983, during his third year of medical school, when he started hosting the radio show “Loveline” on the local KROQ station. What began as a small, late-night program blossomed into a nationally syndicated phenomenon. For years, “Loveline” became a nightly ritual for countless listeners seeking advice on relationships, sex, and health. Dr. Drew’s empathetic yet direct approach resonated with audiences, making him a trusted and relatable figure. The success of “Loveline” on radio paved the way for its MTV adaptation, further expanding Dr. Drew’s reach to a younger demographic. He hosted the MTV version of “Loveline” for approximately five years, solidifying his presence in television.
Recognizing the power of media to educate and destigmatize addiction, Dr. Drew ventured into reality television. He partnered with VH1 to create “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew,” a groundbreaking series that offered an unprecedented look into the process of addiction recovery. The show garnered critical acclaim from the addiction community for its honest portrayal of rehabilitation. Following the success of “Celebrity Rehab,” spin-offs like “Sober House” and “Sex Rehab with Dr. Drew” further explored the complexities of addiction and recovery, solidifying Dr. Drew’s role as a leading voice in addiction awareness and treatment.
Beyond his dedicated shows, Dr. Drew is a frequent guest expert on major national and international media outlets. He has been a regular guest host on CNN’s “Larry King Live” and a recurring contributor on NBC’s “Today Show,” offering his medical insights on a wide range of topics. His appearances on popular talk shows like Ellen, Jimmy Kimmel, and Conan O’Brien demonstrate his ability to connect with diverse audiences and deliver important health information in an accessible manner. Dr. Drew’s expertise has also been featured in prominent publications like Rolling Stone, Playboy, and Muscle & Fitness, showcasing his broad appeal and influence. He is also a published author, with New York Times bestsellers “The Mirror Effect: How Celebrity Narcissism is Seducing America” and “Cracked: Putting Broken Lives Together Again,” further demonstrating his commitment to educating the public on critical health issues.
Despite his demanding career, Dr. Drew maintains a fulfilling personal life. He met his wife, Susan, in Laguna Beach, California, in the 1980s. They are parents to triplets – Douglas, Jordan, and Paulina – conceived through in vitro fertilization. In his personal time, Dr. Drew enjoys spending time with his family, pursuing hobbies like reading, playing the piano, and even singing opera, showcasing his diverse talents and passions. Dr. Drew Pinsky’s multifaceted career embodies his dedication to both medicine and public education. He continues to be a vital voice in the conversation around health and addiction in America, leveraging his expertise and media presence to inform, guide, and inspire countless individuals.
