Ben Sinclair writes about his relationship to marijuana on new Substack

Ben Sinclair, 41, the writer, director and star of the comedy High Maintenance, published essays on a new Substack called 'Low Maintenance' addressing his complicated relationship with marijuana, the New York Times reported on Jan. 29, 2026. Sinclair writes that his attachment to the drug had started to feel like "gripping the rope for dear life," while also stressing that "This isn't a sobriety blog," and that he is still figuring things out; the essays are described in the article as vulnerable and reflective.

In a post titled "Bro Maintenance," Sinclair reflects on his friendship with the screenwriter and director Jeff Baena, who died by suicide in January of last year, a subject the newsletter does not shy away from, the article says. Discussing High Maintenance, Sinclair said the show "recognizes" drug use rather than glamorizing it and called the character "The Guy," saying "The Guy has this reputation for being there for people.

But he's also leaving all the time. He's always out the door." He also described his on-set routine: not stoned in the morning, smoking at lunch and often stoned during editing.

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