My initial gut reaction like other codependents was to make excuses for my xagf's drinking and keep it under wraps. Once I realized she was an alcoholic and it wasn't going to change I changed my tune. I tell close friends if the subject comes up and I'm not embarrassed about it. It's HER problem not mine.
I have even told some people I'm a codependent and in recovery. Once you get it out there it really doesn't matter that much and it loses it's power to hold you captive.
I don't know him so I can't have hope in him. I can hope for you though since you are here. All the best.