Robbie Williams has reflected on his struggles with alcohol and drugs, saying they played a major role in shaping the person he is today.
Speaking to El País US ahead of his performance at Bilbao BBK Live in Spain, the singer opened up about his past addictions, mental health, family life and why he wouldn't change much about his career despite the challenges he has faced.
Looking back on his time in Take That, Williams told El País US he wishes he had never started drinking or taking drugs, but said those experiences became part of who he is.
"I probably wouldn't have started drinking or done drugs," he said. "But then again, I'm all of these things because I did. I don't know, if I had a time machine, that I would change anything."
The 51-year-old has been sober for 25 years and said touring no longer threatens his recovery.
"The difficult part is dealing with life as it is," he explained. "But now I trust myself. I don't think that because I have a day of anxiety I'll go out and do cocaine and relapse. I'll simply sit with it and live with it."
Williams has spoken openly in recent years about his battles with depression and anxiety.
Earlier this year, he revealed he had suffered a relapse of depression after more than a decade without a major episode.
The singer also discussed his new album, Britpop, explaining that the title is partly a tongue-in-cheek nod to the era that he says never truly embraced him.
"I'm British and I make pop," he said. "I wasn't part of the Britpop movement! In fact, I was excluded. This is a way to wind up the right people."
Despite becoming one of the UK's most successful solo artists, Williams said he still feels driven by purpose rather than accolades.
Robbie Williams and partner Ayda Field Williams attend The BRIT Awards 2026. Fred Duval, Shutterstock
He explained that his biggest priority is providing security for his family and ensuring future generations are financially comfortable.
"The main thing is to provide for my family, make sure they are financially sound and that my grandchildren are too," he said.
Harry Styles attends the 2026 BRIT Awards. Fred Duval, Shutterstock
Williams also reflected on how attitudes towards former boy band stars have changed over the years.
Asked whether he helped pave the way for artists such as Harry Styles, he said he doesn't believe he changed the industry, but hopes younger performers may have learned something from watching his career.
The father-of-four also spoke about raising emotionally open children, saying he has tried to avoid repeating unhealthy behaviours from previous generations.
"My children are kind, compassionate, sensitive and affectionate," he said.
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Although he's now more than three decades into his career, Williams said he has no plans to step away from performing anytime soon.
"I want them and I need them," he said of his relationship with fans. "Some people enjoy what I need and some seem to need what I have to offer. I doubt that will ever end."
