Celebrities with Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder brings intense mood swings—high energy manic or hypomanic episodes and deeply low depressive episodes. It’s a condition that doesn’t discriminate, touching lives from all walks of life, including some of the most well-known celebrities.
These stories show us that bipolar disorder isn’t a barrier to success or a fulfilling life. At Maple, we choose to break down stigma by sharing these powerful journeys. By highlighting resilience and strength, we hope to inspire and remind readers that understanding and support can make all the difference. Let’s celebrate the courage behind the stories.
Australian celebrities with Bipolar Disorder
Jessica Marais
Jessica Marais is a talented South African-Australian actress best known for her roles in popular TV dramas like Packed to the Rafters and Love Child. Jessica has been open about her struggles with bipolar disorder, sharing her journey with courage and honesty. Her decision to speak out has been a powerful statement, challenging stigma and showing that mental health issues don’t define a person.
Jessica’s experiences have deeply influenced her work, often portraying women grappling with life’s challenges. Through these roles, she sheds light on what it feels like to struggle from within, offering audiences a window into emotional resilience. For Jessica, bipolar disorder is part of her story but not the whole of it—her journey is a testament to strength, creativity, and the importance to self-acceptance.
Matt Nable
Matt Nable is an Australian actor, writer and former professional rugby league player. You may know him for his powerful performances in films like Riddick and TV series such as Mr Inbetween. Beyond his on-screen work, Matt has made a name for himself as an accomplished writer, with novels and screenplays that delve into themes of vulnerability and resilience.
Matt has been open about living with bipolar disorder, sharing his experiences to help others understand the condition. His journey includes navigating the irritability and insomnia of the extra serotonin and his melancholic depressive episodes. He emphasises his vigilance to indulge in the highs and lows due to his need for stability and balance, especially within his family dynamic.
He admits that these mood swings can be both a challenge and a source of creative fuel, influencing his work as a storyteller and performer. He addresses that bipolar has profoundly shaped his life—not just as an artist but also as a father and husband. It’s a balancing act, one he tackles with determination, therapy, and support from loved ones.
Liza Brock
Liza Brock, formerly known as Liza Witt, gained prominence in the 1990’s as a member of the Australian girl group Teen Queens, achieving two gold records and multiple top ten hits. Despite her public success, Liza privately battled undiagnosed bipolar disorder for many years. The societal stigma surrounding mental illness, coupled with her own internalised shame, prevented her from seeking help during these tumultuous years.
Following her diagnosis, Liza embraced her role as a mental health advocate and writer, candidly sharing her experiences to dismantle stigma and offer support to others facing similar challenges. Through her writings, she provides practical recovery tips, emphasising the importance of self-awareness, therapy, and a robust support system. Her semi-autobiographical novel, Hot Chocolate in Wonderland, offers an insightful and often humorous look into living with mental illness.
Liza’s advocacy extends to various platforms, including contributions to international publications and participation in mental health initiatives. Her openness has helped to encourage a sense of community and understanding, inspiring many to seek help and share their own stories. For more about Liza’s work and insights, visit her website.
Other Famous People living with Bipolar Disorder
Stephen Fry
Stephen Fry is a renowned British actor, comedian, writer, and presenter known for his wit, intelligence, and versatility. For his breakout role in A bit of Fry and Laurie alongside Hugh Laurie to his appearances in Blackadder and hosting QI, Fry has been a beloved figure in entertainment for decades. Beyond his creative work, he has become a powerful advocate for mental health, openly discussing his experiences with bipolar disorder.
Diagnosed with bipolar in his late thirties, Fry has shared his struggles with manic highs and depressive lows, including a suicide attempt in 1995 and periods of intense isolation. His openness about his challenges, particularly in his documentary The Secret Life of the Manic Depressive, has helped break down stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraged others to seek help. Fry has also spoken candidly about the lingering challenges he faces, including the fear of stigma and the daily effort required to maintain balance.
What sets Fry apart is his willingness to share his vulnerabilities, using his pain and experiences to help others. He has said that while bipolar can be a difficult companion, it has also shaped his perspective, enabling him to embrace life with empathy, humour, and a deep appreciation for human resilience.
Carrie Fisher
Carrie Fisher was an iconic actress and writer best known for her portrayal of Princess Leia in Star Wars. Beyond her celebrated career in Hollywood, Fisher was equally renowned for her sharp wit, honesty, and advocacy for mental health awareness. She revealed her bipolar disorder diagnosis publicly in the late 1980s, breaking ground at a time when mental illness was still heavily stigmatised.
Fisher described her bipolar disorder as a “big, loud roommate,” sharing her experiences with manic episodes of boundless energy and creativity, followed by devastating crashes. In her memoirs, including Wishful Drinking and Postcards from the Edge, she chronicled her struggles with substance abuse, which she used as an attempt to self-medicate before understanding her condition.
Despite the challenges, Fisher was able to use her fame to normalise conversations about bipolar. She spoke candidly about the importance of therapy, medication, and humour in her own recovery. Her legacy continues to inspire countless followers, proving that it’s possible to live a vibrant, impactful life while managing mental health challenges.
Bipolar Disorder Care & Support
Hearing and sharing these stories provide us with a powerful reminder that no one is alone in their mental health journey. They show us that challenges such as bipolar can affect anyone and that with the right support, a fulfilling life is absolutely possible.
Let’s keep the conversation going—talking openly breaks down stigma and builds understanding. If you or someone you love is struggling, reaching out to trusted resources like Beyond Blue or Lifeline in Australia can be a first step towards healing. Our team at Maple can also offer advice and help you with a plan.
Remember, seeking help is an act of courage. Together we can create a world where hope and support are always within reach.
