Dear friends of SVGL,
It's kinda hard for me to write this, especially knowing that some of you who'll be reading this have been with me here at this blog since I began it over three years ago (!!) Back then, I didn't really know yet what I wanted to say about the "land" of video games, or to whom I wanted to say it, but by beginning here with all of you, I discovered my voice and grew to where I am now: not only am I Gamasutra's news director, but I've got bylines at Kotaku, GamePro, Slate, Wired, Variety, the AV Club, and many many more.
Maybe too many more. I'm often teased for my prolific and varied output in the world of games writing, but the fact is I'm a workaholic. Producing at this volume for so many years has caused me an enormous amount of stress. Many of you may have observed frequent references to alcohol emerging in my Twitter feed in recent months, plus "jokes" about my drunken antics.
Friends, it breaks my heart to tell you today that these are not jokes. My life has become one long, infamous Giant Bombcast. Games journalism has devoured me alive and it is with much pain and regret that I today announce my retirement in order to enter rehab for the rampant alcoholism in which I have sought refuge from the ruthless and stressful world of writing about video games.
Fortunately, there is a way for me to maintain the connection with you all that has been the primary factor sustaining me in these dark times. My Twitter feed attracted the attention of a casting director for Dr. Drew's Celebrity Rehab show, and I'm proud to announce I'll enter this reality-show rehabilitation program along with other celebrities such as Gidget Yankelevitz, Toney Palumbo and two of the members of the band GunFight!. I'm kind of nervous to meet them, but I'm optimistic and excited about the process ahead.
Today's announcement means SVGL will be no more. Thanks to all of you who've loved my work, and I'm sorry your love was not enough.
Best Wishes,
Leigh Alexander
