Patrick J. Adams reflects on leaving Suits: 'struggled with alcohol and needed a change'

Patrick J. Adams, known for playing Mike Ross on the popular legal drama Suits, recently opened up about the challenges he faced during his final season on the show. Speaking on Jesse Tyler Ferguson’s Dinner’s on Me podcast, Adams shared how his struggles with depression and excessive drinking impacted both his personal and professional life.
Adams revealed that by the end of season seven, he was feeling deeply unhappy and overwhelmed. He admitted to using alcohol and spending as coping mechanisms for his insecurities and fears, which only worsened his state of mind. He described his life during that time as “unexamined” and said he lacked the tools to address his mental health issues.
His drinking also began affecting his relationships, particularly his role as a father. Adams realized he needed to make a change when he found himself becoming increasingly absent in his family life. This realization led him to quit drinking, a decision he called one of the best he has ever made.
Reflecting on his departure from Suits, Adams said the only reason he considered staying was the financial benefits. Despite this, he ultimately prioritized his well-being and relationships, particularly his marriage. “It was time,” he said, adding that he has no regrets about leaving the show, even though he occasionally reflects on the income his co-star Gabriel Macht earned during the final seasons.
Adams is now co-hosting a podcast with his former co-star Sarah Rafferty, Sidebar: A Suits Rewatch, which revisits key moments from the series. He also expressed mixed feelings about the show’s resurgence on Netflix, which garnered significant attention last year. Initially hesitant, Adams said he struggled to reconcile the show’s newfound popularity with his personal growth since leaving. However, watching the show today fills him with gratitude and pride for the work he and his colleagues achieved.
Adams, who has upcoming roles in BBC/Netflix’s Lockerbie and the Yellowstone sequel The Madison, reflected on the lessons he’s learned. He emphasized the importance of self-compassion and appreciating the unique opportunities Suits provided, even during its most challenging moments.