Anthony Hopkins Reveals His Battle with Alcohol Addiction
Sir Anthony Hopkins has opened up about how his addiction to alcohol nearly ended his life. The 87-year-old Academy Award-winning Welsh actor shared that he is haunted by the regret of leaving his first wife and baby daughter due to his struggles.
Reflections in His Memoir
Hopkins reflects on the challenges he has faced in his new memoir We Did Ok, Kid, which is scheduled for release on Tuesday. He describes how heavy drinking was common both in his family and in the theatre environment during his early career.
Impact of Alcohol on His Career
Hopkins admitted that his drinking led to conflicts with directors and instances of performing on stage while intoxicated alongside his colleagues. He told 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."
"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.'"
Life Lessons from Struggle
His honest account reveals how the recklessness of youth and a rebellious spirit contributed to his self-destructive behavior, which he ultimately recognized as a grave danger to his life.
Summary: Anthony Hopkins candidly shares how his alcohol addiction nearly cost him his life and family, revealing a raw journey of regret and survival in his memoir.