Drew Carey is widely recognized by fans of The Price is Right as the upbeat, easygoing host who always greets contestants and audiences with a smile and a well-timed joke. For decades, his infectious humor and approachable persona have made him a beloved figure on daytime television. Yet behind the laughter and the cheerful demeanor, Carey has faced personal struggles that many viewers might never suspect. Over the years, he has candidly shared aspects of his mental health journey, opening up about the challenges and complexities of life beyond the camera.
In a deeply personal interview with Us Weekly, Carey spoke openly about his love life, his approach to dating, and the difficult process of moving forward after a heartbreaking loss. He reflected on the tragic death of his former fiancée, Amie Harwick, a respected therapist and advocate for mental health, who was murdered in 2020 by a former partner. The devastating event left a profound mark on Carey, reshaping not only his understanding of love and intimacy but also the way he navigates emotional vulnerability in his life.
Carey admitted that he thinks about Harwick nearly every day. “Her death still affects me,” he said, his voice tinged with sorrow. “It shapes my thoughts about relationships, about closeness, and about intimacy. So much of it was affected first by our breakup and then by what happened the day before she died, when she reached out to me.” The comedian shared the complexity of his feelings, explaining that the initial end of their relationship had been both painful and, in retrospect, necessary. “We went through a really bad breakup,” Carey reflected, “but it was one of those experiences you need in order to grow. I couldn’t bear to look at her pictures or think about her without feeling overwhelmed. I didn’t want to be reminded of anything at that time.”
Then, just when he thought the chapter had closed, Carey received an unexpected text from Harwick. “Out of the blue, she reached out to me,” he recalled. “She said, ‘Hey, it’s Amie. I’ve been thinking a lot about forgiveness. I would love to get together with you and talk about some things.’” The message, simple yet profound, revealed Harwick’s willingness to reconcile and confront unresolved feelings, sparking a wave of emotions for Carey. He described feeling a mixture of hope, hesitation, and vulnerability as he read her words, all while grappling with the grief of losing someone he deeply cared for in such a violent and senseless way.
Beyond the heartbreak, Carey reflected on how the experience has reshaped his approach to love and human connection. He spoke candidly about the tension between wanting to open his heart again and the fear of being hurt. The murder of Harwick was not just a personal tragedy—it served as a stark reminder of life’s unpredictability and the fragility of those we hold dear. Carey’s willingness to discuss these feelings publicly underscores his authenticity, showing fans that even those who seem perpetually cheerful face profound grief, loss, and emotional struggle.
In sharing his story, Carey has offered more than a glimpse into his private life; he has illuminated the complex ways in which love, loss, and healing intersect. His reflections serve as a reminder that grief does not follow a linear path and that the process of moving on, while painful, can also provide opportunities for introspection and growth. Carey’s openness about his emotional journey also emphasizes the importance of acknowledging mental health, encouraging others to confront their feelings rather than hide them behind a smile or a public persona.
Ultimately, Carey’s experience with Harwick’s untimely death has left an indelible impact, shaping not only his personal life but also his perspective on relationships, trust, and the value of human connection. Even as he continues to entertain millions on television, he carries with him the memory of someone who changed his life, reminding him daily of the fragility, beauty, and profound complexity of love.