Why do you drink, André? 

Ah, well, I mainly drink to be social—with friends, at get-togethers, or as a reward after a long day. But never to relax. That’s key. When I need to unwind, it’s sports that do the trick, not alcohol. That’s a really important distinction for me.  

How would you describe your alcohol consumption?  

I would say I’m thoughtful about it. For me, drinking smart means first and foremost not getting behind the wheel. It’s also about being in charge of the situation—keeping your mind clear and never losing control. You always have to be aware of what you’re doing.  

How has your relationship with alcohol changed over time?  

When I was a teen, it was all about discovery and excess. Like many young people, I went through a phase. Today, though, it’s more about just being open and enjoying spending time with people. My goal is to make sure everyone’s having a good time, so I moderate how much I drink. I’m much more aware of it. I’m also focused on my guests.  

Do you ever face challenges when it comes to alcohol?  

Oh, yes. For example, there are times when people buy me shooters at a bar because they recognize me. I accept them, of course, because I want to be polite. But often I find a way to get rid of the shots without it being too obvious. It’s a bit of a challenge when you don’t want to be rude but you know your limits.  

What message do you give your kids and grandkids about alcohol?  

I talk to them about moderation. It’s really important for me that they understand you can celebrate and have fun, but in a responsible way. We talk about this a lot. I also tell them that, yes, I went overboard in the past, but it’s so they can learn from my personal experience.  

How do you approach the subject with them? 

It’s an open subject. We talk about it pretty frankly. There are no taboos at home. For me, what’s most important is that they understand it’s about finding a balance—with alcohol just like with anything else, like screentime. That balance can also be found in physical activity and sports. 

What about TV? Is alcohol sending the wrong message? 

Here’s something people may not know: On Enfants de la télé, I never take a single sip from my glass. The idea is to create the ambiance of a dinner with friends, to show people having a nice time, but without alcohol being the focus. I think it’s important to pay attention to the message we’re sending, especially on TV.  

How do you see alcohol consumption evolving in Quebec over the next few years?  

I think we’re going to become more and more mindful of the risks of alcohol abuse. There’s a lot more awareness now about mental health, and I think that’s going to have a positive influence on how we drink.