Simon Pegg, 56, has revealed that his current athletic physique is a direct result of his ongoing journey to maintain sobriety. Celebrating 16 years of being alcohol-free, the actor shared that he believes he would still be struggling with alcoholism if he had not achieved fame.
Pegg has been open about his past struggles with heavy drinking, which he said led to him blacking out for days during trips to Hollywood. He stated that checking into The Priory in 2010 was a critical turning point, and he now prioritizes living a long and healthy life.
"After I quit drinking I decided to get in shape," Pegg told The Sunday Times. "There was something positive about just looking after myself, and I love working out because it gets endorphins flowing and gives me a routine." His fitness regimen includes daily 10km runs, circuit training, and strength workouts.
He added, "The guys that were 56 when I was a kid seemed like my f***ing grandad, and I just want to live for a long time. Because, you know what? I like life."
Pegg reflected on the role of fame in his past struggles, stating, "Fame didn't cause it, it might have exacerbated it at times and thrown it into sharper relief but, no, it was in me before and just happened slightly in public rather than in private."
This disciplined approach to his health contrasts sharply with some of his past on-screen roles. In the 2007 film 'Run Fatboy Run,' Pegg famously portrayed an out-of-shape character struggling with motivation to exercise. His transformation highlights a significant personal shift.
Recent activity has also sparked fan interest in potential collaborations with frequent on-screen partner Nick Frost. The pair, known for their work on 'Spaced,' 'Shaun of the Dead,' and 'Hot Fuzz,' reunited for a dinner earlier this year, leading to renewed calls for a reboot of their cult classic sitcom 'Spaced.' Pegg has also teased the possibility of a fourth film in the Cornetto Trilogy, a project he believes is a matter of "when, not if."
Pegg and Frost have a history of collaborating, including starring together in the Edgar Wright-directed Cornetto Trilogy and the more recent series 'Truth Seekers.' Despite their creative partnership and shared production company, they also navigated periods of separation, including during lockdown, with Frost recalling a lengthy reunion hug with Pegg once restrictions eased.