‘Blue Lagoon’ star Christopher Atkins wanted to be a dad more than ‘a drunk’ as he nears 40 years sober

Christopher Atkins says becoming a father helped him stop drinking, and that his grandchildren now strengthen his commitment to sobriety. The actor, who became famous in *The Blue Lagoon*, says he is approaching 40 years sober and hopes his grandchildren never see him drunk.

At a New Jersey fan convention, Atkins reflected on how family gave him reasons to remain sober as his children grew up and later had children of their own. He also said heavy drinking affected his career: he was considered for the lead in *Footloose*, but believes his condition during a meeting with filmmakers cost him the role, which went to Kevin Bacon. Atkins, who has two adult children with his former wife, also recalled being unprepared for the worldwide attention that followed his early film success.