On the Oct. 7 episode of the popular podcast “Armchair Expert”— cohosted by Dax Shepard and Monica Padman — actor Halle Berry opened up about her tumultuous marriage to R&B singer Eric Benét, particularly addressing his claims of being a sex addict. The conversation revealed Berry’s candid thoughts on the allegations that have haunted their relationship since their split.
Berry’s take on Benét’s claims
During the podcast, Berry expressed skepticism about Benét’s assertion of being a sex addict.
“I had one husband who said he was a sex addict but I don’t f—— believe that s—. That’s some bullsh-t,” Berry stated, according to OK! Magazine. This bold statement highlights the emotional turmoil she experienced during their marriage, particularly in light of Benét’s infidelities.
Benét’s infidelity and denial of addiction
Berry and Benét were married in 2011 after two years of dating, but their relationship was marred by Benét’s unfaithfulness. While he has admitted to cheating, he has consistently denied being a sex addict.
“I am not a sex addict,” he stated in a 2004 interview with ABC News, according to a timeline compiled by NewsBytes. “I am a person who … through a series of emotional events, troubles, challenges, made some really, really stupid, painful mistakes.” This denial has been a recurring theme in his public statements.
Benét has clarified that while he engaged in inappropriate behavior, he did not have sexual intercourse with the women he cheated with, instead admitting to inappropriate messages and physical contact. He has described his therapy sessions as a condition for moving forward in their marriage, suggesting that he was pressured into seeking help.
The emotional fallout for Berry
Berry’s emotional breakdown following the revelations of Benét’s infidelity was profound.
“I had an emotional breakdown. That window, my bay window looked real good. I thought I was gonna go right through it,” the Oscar-winning actor recalled in the interview with Winfrey. This candid admission underscores the mental health struggles she faced during this tumultuous period.
Her mother played a pivotal role in encouraging Berry to explore the concept of sex addiction as a potential explanation for Benét’s behavior. On “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” Berry revealed that her mother suggested rehab as a solution, believing that Benét had the willingness to work on their issues. Despite this, their marriage ultimately could not withstand the strain, leading to their divorce in 2005.
Reflections on their relationship
Berry’s reflections on her marriage to Benét reveal a complex interplay of love, betrayal and the struggle for understanding. She initially dismissed the tabloid rumors of his infidelity, only to be confronted with the painful truth. The emotional toll of his repeated betrayals led her to question the very foundation of their relationship.
Despite the heartache, Berry has emerged as a resilient figure, using her experiences to advocate for mental health awareness and the importance of self-care. Her story resonates with many, particularly within African American communities, where discussions about mental health and relationships are increasingly vital.
Berry’s candid remarks about her marriage to Benét shed light on the complexities of love, trust and recovery. As she continues to navigate her personal and professional life, her story serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and healing in relationships.
As discussions around mental health and addiction continue to evolve, Berry’s experiences contribute to a broader conversation about the challenges many face in their personal lives. Her resilience and openness inspire others to seek help and prioritize their mental well-being.
