Anthony Hopkins Reflects on Estrangement from Daughter Abigail
In his memoir We Did OK, Kid, Anthony Hopkins opens up about his long and painful estrangement from his daughter, Abigail Hopkins, whom he shares with his first wife, British actress Petronella Barker. The actor admits that the separation “broke my heart,” but says his door remains open to her.
A Difficult Marriage and Its Aftermath
Hopkins recalls his turbulent marriage to Barker, whom he married in 1967 while struggling with alcohol addiction. Their relationship, he writes, was marked by intense conflicts and emotional distance.
“Our opposing personalities and my alcoholism doomed the relationship from the start,” he reflects. “By the time we realized how awful a match we were, Barker was pregnant.”
Despite attempts to salvage their relationship for the sake of their unborn child, Hopkins admits it was unsuccessful. Their marriage eventually collapsed under the weight of resentment and his heavy drinking.
“The marriage was a disaster,” Hopkins continues, explaining that they fought often and that Barker resented his growing focus on his acting career.
Lingering Pain and Reflection
Now 87, the two-time Oscar winner describes how leaving his family deeply affected him and contributed to years of inner turmoil. Nevertheless, he suggests that reconciliation remains possible, expressing enduring love and openness toward his daughter.
Author’s Summary: Anthony Hopkins candidly revisits his painful past, acknowledging the heartbreak of family estrangement while leaving room for healing and connection.