The Breakfast Club: INTERVIEW: Jason Lee Talks Sobriety, Political Moves, Rihanna's Friendship + More

Release Date: December 18, 2024
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
Episode Title: INTERVIEW: Jason Lee Talks Sobriety, Political Moves, Rihanna's Friendship + More

In this compelling episode of The Breakfast Club, hosts DJ Envy and Charlamagne Tha God engage in an in-depth conversation with Councilman Jason Lee, delving into his journey toward sobriety, his recent political endeavors, his relationship with global superstar Rihanna, and his perspectives on media and society. The discussion offers listeners a nuanced look into Lee's transformation from an entertainment figure to a dedicated public servant committed to community upliftment.

1. Introduction and Political Ascension

The episode kicks off with DJ Envy warmly welcoming Charlamagne Tha God and introducing their special guest, Councilman Jason Lee.

[02:37] DJ Envy: "We got a special guest in the building. Charlamagne Tha God: Councilman Jason Lee."

Jason Lee shares insights into his unexpected transition into politics, emphasizing his longstanding commitment to community service and healthcare advocacy.

[03:35] Jason Lee: "I just wanted to give that back to my community. We flew in, we met with the kids, and that was the beginning of me saying, you know what? I now have all this money, platform, relationships. I gotta do something to help my hometown."

Lee attributes his success in the political arena to strategic partnerships and support from influential figures like Kevin Hart, Floyd Mayweather, Babyface, and Rihanna.

2. The Sobriety Journey

A significant portion of the interview centers on Lee's personal battle with substance abuse and his path to sobriety. Lee candidly recounts a pivotal moment that propelled him to seek help.

[05:32] Jason Lee: "I've been sober now, 15 months, 47 gone. So, I mean, I'm evolving, but I'm not gonna change. I'm gonna always, always just stay true to who I am."

He describes a harrowing experience at a birthday party where excessive drinking led to dangerous situations, highlighting the necessity of recognizing warning signs.

[05:38] Jason Lee: "I woke up in the morning, and there were people in my house that I didn't know... I thought, like, if I would have woken up and found these people in my house, how I would have shot them all."

This moment of clarity led Lee to embrace sobriety, supported by therapy and a redefined support system.

3. Relationship with Rihanna and Celebrity Influence

Lee discusses his profound friendship with Rihanna, underscoring how their relationship transcends typical celebrity interactions.

[10:07] Charlamagne Tha God: "I was gonna ask, you had the nonprofit dinner that you had Rihanna host. Do you save those types of favors for moments like that?"

[10:12] DJ Envy: "Rihanna, she gave me the photos of her first kid that we put out. She just believes in what we're doing... Now, as a new mom, she really is in love with, like, you know, making sure that kids are taken care of."

Their bond is characterized by mutual respect and a shared commitment to community initiatives, with Rihanna playing an instrumental role in supporting Lee's political campaigns and nonprofit endeavors.

4. Navigating Media Controversies

The conversation takes a candid turn as Lee addresses past media controversies, including his off-the-cuff remarks about Jennifer Hudson and misinformation regarding the death of the "queen."

[12:14] DJ Envy: "I did made that off the cuff comment about Jennifer Hudson. You said she was illiterate and a terrible host."

Lee reflects on the challenges of maintaining authenticity while managing public perceptions, emphasizing the importance of accountability.

[22:14] DJ Envy: "We have to watch what we say because people are suing us. We have insurance and stuff too. But sometimes you make a mistake."

He underscores the delicate balance between free expression and responsible reporting, particularly in the age of cancel culture.

5. Vision and Plans as Councilman

Looking ahead, Lee outlines his strategic plans to revitalize Stockton through financial audits, investment in nonprofits led by women and people of color, and addressing homelessness.

[26:23] DJ Envy: "The first thing on January 7th, I'm ordering an audit, and I'm on the budget committee of all the money."

He emphasizes transparency and accountability, promising to scrutinize municipal finances to ensure funds are utilized effectively for community betterment.

6. Building and Maintaining Relationships in the Entertainment Industry

Lee elaborates on his approach to maintaining meaningful relationships within the entertainment sector while steering clear of superficial connections.

[15:45] DJ Envy: "You can not like me or hate me or hate on what I do or whatever. I still have a relationship with you, with everybody in the industry."

He advocates for purpose-driven collaborations, leveraging his platform to support initiatives that align with his values and community goals.

7. Addressing Personal Challenges and Growth

In a heartfelt segment, Lee opens up about his emotional struggles stemming from his mother's battle with addiction and his journey through therapy.

[28:21] DJ Envy: "I respect you so much for encouraging me to go to therapy, but I also don't like that you encouraged me to go to therapy."

He discusses overcoming abandonment issues and learning to compartmentalize his relationship with Queen Latifah, recognizing the importance of personal growth and healing.

8. Impact Awards and Celebrating Redemption

Lee highlights the significance of the Impact Awards, an event dedicated to honoring individuals like Jonathan Majors who exemplify resilience and redemption in the face of adversity.

[24:21] DJ Envy: "Jonathan was an easy one. When I looked at what he went through... it's about moments of impact throughout the year, opportunities to create impactful conversation."

The awards aim to foster dialogue around forgiveness and the possibility of personal transformation, challenging societal tendencies toward unforgiving judgments.

9. Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors

As the interview draws to a close, Lee expresses his dedication to community service and his excitement for future projects, including expanding his award show and reinforcing his commitment to Stockton.

[27:38] Charlamagne Tha God: "I tell him I'm very jealous of that. Your relationship."

[28:10] DJ Envy: "I'm really in love with my show. But outside of that and my dogs, I really don't wanna go nowhere."

Lee reiterates his focus on leveraging his platform for meaningful change, emphasizing that his priorities lie in nurturing his community and fostering positive societal impacts.

Notable Quotes:

• Jason Lee on Sobriety:
  [05:33] "I'm sober now. 15 months, 47 gone. So, I mean, I'm evolving, but I'm not gonna change. I'm gonna always, always just stay true to who I am."

• On Political Motivation:
  [03:35] "I just wanted to give that back to my community. We flew in, we met with the kids, and that was the beginning of me saying, you know what? I now have all this money, platform, relationships. I gotta do something to help my hometown."

• Regarding Media Responsibility:
  [22:14] "We have to watch what we say because people are suing us. We have insurance and stuff too. But sometimes you make a mistake."

• On Building Relationships:
  [15:45] "You can not like me or hate me or hate on what I do or whatever. I still have a relationship with you, with everybody in the industry."

• On Redemption and Impact:
  [24:21] "It's about moments of impact throughout the year, opportunities to create impactful conversation."

Conclusion

This episode of The Breakfast Club offers a profound glimpse into Jason Lee's multifaceted life, showcasing his resilience, dedication to public service, and the intricate dynamics of maintaining personal and professional relationships in the public eye. Lee's candid revelations about his struggles with addiction, his strategic political moves, and his unwavering commitment to his community provide inspiration and insight for listeners navigating their own paths toward growth and societal contribution.