“Suits,” the legal drama that captivated audiences and recently found a renewed fanbase on Netflix, was a significant chapter in Patrick J. Adams’ career. His portrayal of Michael Ross, the brilliant college dropout turned lawyer, alongside Gabriel Macht’s Harvey Specter, was central to the show’s success for seven seasons. While Adams made a brief return for the series finale, his absence in the final two seasons left fans wondering. Recently, in an episode of Jesse Tyler Ferguson’s “Dinner’s on Me” podcast, Adams openly discussed the reasons behind his departure from “Suits,” shedding light on a challenging period in his life.
The On-Screen Chemistry and Off-Screen Struggles
For seven seasons, Patrick J. Adams embodied the character of Michael Ross, a key component of the dynamic that made “Suits” so compelling. The on-screen partnership between Ross and Specter was a cornerstone of the show’s narrative, drawing viewers into the high-stakes legal world and the personal lives of the characters. However, behind the scenes, Adams was facing his own personal battles. As he revealed on the podcast, the end of Season 7 marked a turning point, not just in his character’s arc, but in his own well-being.
Battling Demons: Mental Health and Substance Use
Adams candidly shared that his departure was significantly influenced by his struggles with mental health. “I wasn’t taking good care of my mental health and I was drinking too much [at] the end of Season 7,” he admitted. He described himself as living an “unexamined life,” feeling “miserable” and “pretty depressed.” At the time, Adams lacked healthy coping mechanisms, turning instead to “spending money and drinking too much” to numb his feelings of insecurity and fear. This approach, he realized, was not only ineffective but was also taking a toll on his personal life. He recognized the negative impact on his relationship and, crucially, the kind of father he was becoming. This realization served as a “breaking point,” prompting him to acknowledge the necessity of change.
A Difficult Decision for Personal Well-being
The decision to leave a successful show like “Suits” was undoubtedly difficult. Adams confessed that as Season 8 approached, the primary incentive to return was financial. However, a conversation with his mother provided crucial perspective. Her advice against staying solely for the money resonated deeply with him. Ultimately, Adams prioritized his mental health and personal life over financial gain. He stated, “The only reason to stay was… money,” but acknowledged that staying for that reason alone was not enough. Despite fleeting thoughts about the financial benefits he might have missed, Adams affirmed that he has “never regretted the decision for a second.” He emphasized that it was “the right thing for my marriage” and that “it was time” to make a change for his overall well-being.
Moving Forward: No Regrets and Future Ventures
Looking back at his time on “Suits,” Adams expresses “so much compassion for myself.” He reflects on the experience with kindness, recognizing the challenges he faced and appreciating the camaraderie of the cast and crew. His decision to leave “Suits” paved the way for positive changes in his life, including prioritizing his sobriety and mental health. While the “Suits” saga continues with the upcoming spin-off “Suits: LA,” and Gabriel Macht reprises his role as Harvey Specter, Adams is engaged in revisiting his “Suits” journey in a different capacity. He co-hosts a “Suits” rewatch podcast with Sarah Rafferty, allowing him to reflect on the show from a healthier and more appreciative perspective. Adams’ story is a reminder that prioritizing mental health, even when faced with significant professional and financial considerations, is paramount for long-term happiness and fulfillment.
