Anthony Hopkins Reflects on Estrangement from Daughter Abigail
In his memoir We Did OK, Kid, Anthony Hopkins opens up about his painful estrangement from his daughter Abigail Hopkins, whom he had with his first wife, Petronella Barker. The two-time Oscar winner describes this estrangement as something that "broke my heart."
Complicated Family Dynamics
Hopkins, now 87, recalls the turbulent relationship with Barker, 83, and how their differences shaped the family’s struggles. He admits that his alcoholism at the time was a major factor in their volatile marriage, which began in 1967.
"Our opposing personalities and my alcoholism doomed the relationship from the start."
Despite the challenges, they tried to stay together for Abigail’s sake, but the marriage ultimately failed.
"By the time we realized how awful a match we were, Barker was pregnant. We tried to rally for the sake of the child we were about to have, but it was no use. The marriage was a disaster."
Points of Conflict
- Hopkins’ struggle with alcoholism
- Barker’s resentment over Hopkins’ acting career
- Frequent fights and emotional distance
Hopkins recalls one particular night when he returned from filming in Scotland to find Barker sarcastically greeting him as “Mr. Lord High and Mighty,” highlighting the tension between them.
Hopkins' Ongoing Hope
Despite the years of separation and difficulty, Hopkins expresses that his door remains open to Abigail, showing his willingness for reconciliation.
"My door is always open to her."
He has been sober for nearly five decades now, reflecting on the past with honesty and hope.
Author's Summary
Anthony Hopkins openly shares the heartbreak caused by his estrangement from his daughter due to past struggles, while expressing hope for healing and reconciliation.