Joe Don Rooney, guitarist of Rascal Flatts, took to X (formerly Twitter) today to speak about his journey with sobriety.
I’m sorry it’s been a while since I’ve posted on any socials. It’s actually been a couple years since I’ve engaged with fans and friends on Twitter (now X) or Instagram.
— JDR (@JoeDonRooney) January 3, 2024
But I figured today, at the beginning of this brand new year 2024, would be a good day to send a message out…
Since 2021, Rooney has maintained a rather absent presence on social media. Today’s statement details the cause of his absence being a near-death car accident on Sep. 9, 2021, only a year after Rascal Flatt’s farewell tour.
“My life and career took a major detour at 4a in the early morning hours of Sep 9, 2021 when I ran square into a tree and about killed myself. I was drunk and I was so far gone with my life”
The incident being referred to took place just north of Franklin, TN, resulting in Rooney being arrested and charged with a DUI. In June 2022, he pleaded guilty to these charges and was sentenced to serve 2 days in jail.
The news of his arrest made headlines across the music industry. Although quiet at the time, he admits now that he took the situation very seriously. Aware that a lifestyle change was needed, the incident caused him to seriously reflect on himself.
“My drinking had been an issue for many years – and as they say in AA and treatment, it’s a progressive disease. I am living proof that the progressive nature of drinking can really ratchet up and as I grew older as an adult my drinking grew worse.”
After going into treatment, the award-winning musician committed himself to a journey of sobriety. Today, he is almost 28 months sober. As a result, Rooney sees the incident that nearly took his life as a blessing in disguise. He credits the accident for putting him on a better path:
“I was not a good father – I was not a good husband – and I was not a good bandmate to my business partners. I probably would’ve never taken responsibility for any of this if it hadn’t been for my car wreck on Sep 9, 2021.”
Rooney also took the opportunity to address rumors that have been circulating about him.
During his absence from social media, it was suggested that Rooney was in the process of transitioning from male to female. It’s unclear where the accusations originated from, but, as expected, Rooney asserted that such rumors are false.
“There have been so many rumors and opinions thrown around about me – but I’m finally healthy and ready for the world. And NO, I’m not transitioning to be a woman. That thought has never entered my mind. Nothing against the trans community whatsoever but I needed to set the record straight.”
Rooney made sure to thank his fans for their relentless support as he continues his journey of self-improvement. And, as we begin 2024, Rooney’s hopeful story reminds us that new beginnings are always possible.