Susan Powter shares the 'most humorous suicide anecdote' that ultimately rescued her: 'Grieved for my own demise'

Susan Powter, the wellness guru behind the iconic Stop the Insanity! program, recently spoke candidly about a period in her life when she contemplated ending it all. In a conversation with comedian Kathy Griffin, the 67-year-old revealed how she once mourned her own death but found unexpected humor in the situation that ultimately saved her.

During her pop culture return following the loss of a reported $300 million from her 1990s wellness empire, Powter reflected on a low point while driving for Uber Eats in Las Vegas. The discussion took place on Griffin's YouTube channel as part of the promotion for the documentary Stop the Insanity: Finding Susan Powter, produced by Jamie Lee Curtis.

Powter described the moment she was overwhelmed with despair: "I was sitting in my car, 5:00 in the morning, starting my Uber shift, sobbing. I was mourning my own death." She admitted she felt utterly stuck and considered that there was no way out. "I have three children, and they were raised by me, so they wouldnt question me. And I was done," she said.

However, the story took an unexpectedly humorous turn. While contemplating ending her life, she realized the hybrid car she was driving wouldnt even produce enough carbon monoxide to harm her. "I was so mad, and then I started laughing," Powter recalled. Moments later, she returned to delivering orders, joking with herself as she continued her shift.

Powter reflected on how working for Uber Eats gave her privacy during that difficult time. She also recalled the emotional impact of delivering food to neighborhoods where she had once lived, including a memorable encounter with the late comedian Louie Anderson, who recognized her immediately.

In discussing the documentary, Jamie Lee Curtis emphasized that it explores more than nostalgia. It highlights society's treatment of older adults, addressing the lack of resources, dignity, and respect they often face. Curtis explained that the film challenges viewers to consider their own role in these societal dynamics while also celebrating Powters unique journey.

Stop the Insanity: Finding Susan Powter is currently showing in select theaters and will be available on digital platforms starting December 9. In the documentary, Powter openly shares her past struggles with suicidal thoughts and how humor and resilience helped her survive.

Author: Aiden Foster