Quitting

Jia Hongsheng, a graduate of the Central Academy of Drama in Beijing, gained fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s. His performances in films such as The Case of the Silver Snake and A Woman from North Shaanxi showcased his talent and established him as a notable actor.

During rehearsals for the stage production Kiss of the Spider Woman in the fall of 1992, Jia encountered marijuana for the first time. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a dangerous addiction that would soon lead him to heroin.

In 1995, after completing his role in Weekend Lover, Jia made the life-altering decision to retire from acting. His addiction had taken a toll on his career and personal life, leading him to depend on his younger sister Wang Tong for support.

Recognizing his struggles, Jia's parents, seasoned theatre actors Jia Fengsen and Chai Xiuling, moved to Beijing in late 1995. This gesture was aimed at helping Jia confront his addiction, and it also allowed for family reconnection as Wang Tong returned to their family apartment.

At first, Jia was indifferent and sometimes hostile toward his parents' attempts to help him. Despite this, the efforts to reach out continued, and Jia gradually began to let his guard down, sharing moments with his father during leisurely walks.

As their relationship began to improve, Jia Fengsen complied with his son's request for Beatles cassette tapes. This simple act symbolized a bridge between them, as Jia found solace in the music of his favorite band.

In early 1996, just as Jia was on the verge of recovery after nearly six months sober, he celebrated his twenty-ninth birthday with heavy drinking. This led to a moment of aggression where he struck his father while insisting he was teaching him the 'meaning of life.'

Following the incident on his birthday, Jia's family sought help from the authorities out of concern for his well-being. As a result, three policemen were dispatched to escort him to a mental institution, marking a significant turning point in his journey.

During his stay at the mental institution, Jia received medication and exhibited significant improvement. This phase was crucial in helping him come to terms with his reality and overcome his delusions about life.

The doctors concluded that Jia did not suffer from schizophrenia, yet they recommended he remain in the facility for further treatment. This assessment provided him with clarity about his condition, facilitating a more focused path to recovery.

After a year filled with struggles and breakthroughs, Jia experienced a transformative period of recovery. His newfound perspective on life was a pivotal moment that marked the start of his healing journey.

On March 19, 1997, coinciding with his thirtieth birthday, Jia was finally discharged from the institution. This marked a hopeful new chapter in his life, filled with opportunities for personal growth and a chance to rebuild his relationships.