Joe Rogan was holding back tears after sharing an emotional moment with a recent podcast guest.
Having recorded over 2300 episodes of his podcast, Rogan has had plenty of candid and emotional conversations with some of the biggest names both in sport and popular media.
The UFC commentator started 'The Joe Rogan Experience' in 2009 and now boasts an incredible 14.5 million followers on Spotify.
And in his latest episode, Rogan and guest Jeremy Renner had an important and candid discussion about mental health and suicide, leaving Rogan holding back tears.
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On New Years Day 2023, Renner was involved in a tragic accident at his property in Reno, Nevada, when he was crushed by a running Snowcat as he saved his nephew from being pinned and likely killed by the snow removal vehicle.
The Avengers star was later admitted into intensive care and has undergone an inspirational rehabilitation, which led he discussed during an emotional conversation with Rogan about mental health.
"It's so difficult for people to trust the process or trust that it will get better, and this is unfortunately why some people end their lives," Rogan said while clearly holding back tears.
"You hear from so many people that almost took their life or failed, that now realise 'Oh my God, I was so wrong, it does get better, I am better, everything is better and I just didn't see the light."
Touching on his own battle with mental health, Renner replied: "That hopelessness, that weighs heavy. You can't afford that, you can't give that power because anybody can sink into that.
"I've been there, Jesus. Look, I think people need to suffer. It's an actual requirement of life. It's the fiber - the DNA - of love! Real love and true love, in perpetuity, can't exist without suffering.
"It's impossible. You have to have suffering. And suffering doesn't have to be looked at as a negative thing. It could be looked at as a beautiful thing. It's what real love comes out of.
"It can be a lonely experience, but it’s just temporary.”
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, please don’t suffer alone. Call Samaritans for free on their anonymous 24-hour phone line on 116 123.
Ben McCrum