Is drinking every day alcoholism? Experts explain where culture and addiction collide

A clip from Ed Sheeran's appearance on "The Louis Theroux Podcast" has recently resurfaced on social media, sparking renewed debate over differences between British and American attitudes toward alcohol. "Americans call something ‘ alcoholism ’ that Brits simply call ‘culture.’ Maybe one or two pints at the end of a workday," the singer said during the 2025 podcast. "On a Friday you’ll have 6 pints and a bottle of wine. It’s not alcoholism to drink every day here … It’s just the culture." NIGHTL