Drew Carey’s Journey Through Love, Loss, and Tragedy

Drew Carey is widely recognized for his humor and charisma as a television host, but behind the laughter lies a story of profound pain and resilience. The tragic loss of his former fiancée, Amie Harwick, remains a devastating chapter in his life—one that continues to shape him to this day.

A Childhood Marked by Hardship

Fame often brings scrutiny, but for Drew Carey, 66, the challenges in his life began long before he became a household name. Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, he faced heartbreak at an early age when his father passed away from a heart attack. Drew was only eight years old when he lost him, a tragedy that left a lasting impact.

The grief weighed heavily on him, manifesting in nervous habits like biting his nails until his fingers bled. School wasn’t much easier—he struggled academically and was expelled twice. Life at home was also tough, with his mother working tirelessly to support him and his two older brothers.

Battling Depression and Suicidal Thoughts

In addition to childhood grief, Drew also experienced deep emotional struggles. At different points in his life, he faced severe depression, even attempting suicide twice by overdosing on sleeping pills.

In one instance, during his fraternity days, his friends rushed him to the hospital after finding him in distress. As he was being treated, a friend began singing the jingle for the sleeping aid he had taken, a moment that, strangely enough, made Drew laugh. That small moment of humor, he later said, reminded him of the power of laughter even in his darkest times.

Drew eventually found a path toward healing through reading, therapy, and self-discovery. Books by motivational speaker Wayne Dyer helped him shift his perspective, teaching him to stop carrying unnecessary guilt.

A Career and Life Transformation

In 1980, Drew joined the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, serving as a field radio operator for six years. It was during this time that he adopted his signature crew cut, a style he still sports today.

His breakthrough in comedy led him to mainstream success, first with The Drew Carey Show and later as the host of The Price Is Right. His career flourished, and for a while, so did his personal life.

Falling in Love with Amie Harwick

In 2017, Drew met Dr. Amie Harwick, a well-respected therapist and author specializing in relationships and mental health. Their connection was instant, and after six months of dating, they announced their engagement in early 2018.

Amie, known for her advocacy and expertise in psychology, had built a successful career helping others. She held degrees in psychology and clinical therapy and had a strong presence in Hollywood’s wellness circles.

Though their love story seemed promising, the engagement was short-lived. By the end of 2018, Drew and Amie had parted ways, though they remained on good terms. Despite their breakup, Drew continued to hold deep affection for Amie, later recalling that their time together had been the happiest relationship of his life.

A Tragic End

On February 15, 2020, Amie’s life was cut short in a horrific act of violence. She was found gravely injured outside her Hollywood Hills home after falling from her third-floor balcony. Investigators quickly determined that she had been attacked inside her home before the fall.

Her ex-boyfriend, Gareth Pursehouse, was arrested for the crime. Reports later revealed that Amie had taken legal steps to protect herself from him in the past, securing restraining orders against him years prior. However, he reappeared in her life just weeks before the attack.

Drew was devastated by the news. Just days before her death, Amie had reached out to him, sending a message about forgiveness and wanting to reconnect. They had made plans to meet, but that day never came.

Coping with Grief and Keeping Her Memory Alive

In the wake of Amie’s murder, Drew struggled deeply. Valentine’s Day, once a time for love, became a painful reminder of what he lost. He admitted that he no longer saw the holiday the same way, as it now marked the anniversary of an unimaginable loss.

Despite the heartache, Drew has used his platform to keep Amie’s memory alive. He has spoken openly about his grief, sharing how much she meant to him and how their relationship shaped him.

At her funeral, Drew met Amie’s closest friends, who reassured him of how much she had loved him. The bond they formed in their shared grief has since become a source of strength for him.

Finding Strength in the Face of Loss

Drew Carey has endured significant hardships throughout his life, from childhood trauma to personal battles with depression and, ultimately, the loss of a woman he deeply loved. Yet, through it all, he remains a symbol of resilience.

His willingness to speak openly about his struggles has undoubtedly helped others facing similar pain. Though the wounds of Amie’s tragic death may never fully heal, Drew continues to honor her legacy while finding his own path forward.

Rest in peace, Amie. And to Drew, your courage and honesty inspire many.