Anthony Hopkins Reveals Battle with Alcohol Addiction
Sir Anthony Hopkins confessed that his struggle with alcohol addiction nearly cost him his life. The 87-year-old Academy Award-winning Welsh actor reflects on his regrets, especially leaving his first wife and infant daughter behind.
Memoir Explores Past Struggles
In his upcoming memoir We Did Ok, Kid, set to be published Tuesday, Hopkins opens up about the hardships he endured. He revealed that heavy drinking was common in his family and the theater community.
Impact on Work and Relationships
Hopkins admitted his addiction affected his professional life, including showing up drunk on stage and clashing with directors. He described the experience in an interview with The Guardian:
"It was terrible. You used to be on stage and not know where you were or why you were there, adding ten minutes to the play."
He added that rebellion and defiance felt natural in youth but acknowledged the destructive consequences:
"It was just the done thing... Who cares about the establishment? When you’re growing up, it’s healthy to want to punch out and be rebellious and survive. And it was a bit of fun, I thought."
"But I remember thinking one day: 'Yeah, and it’s going to kill you as well.'"
Reflection on Life
Hopkins' candid memoir offers a look at how addiction influenced his early career and personal life, ultimately serving as a warning and source of insight.
Summary: Anthony Hopkins openly discusses how alcohol addiction nearly destroyed his life and career, sharing deep regrets and hard-earned lessons in his upcoming memoir.