Sir Anthony Hopkins, who turns 87 today, reflected on his alcoholic past in an post where he marked 49 years of sobriety.
The winning Silence of the Lambs star posted a clip speaking directly to camera where he encouraged anyone struggling with “the booze” to get help admittng he realised he was in “big, big, trouble” after a bender.
In the clip, filmed on December 29, he smiled broadly as he greeted viewers and explained the significance of the date. “Well, 49 years ago today, I stopped,” he said making a drinking gesture.
“And I was having such fun, then I realised I was in big, big trouble because I couldn’t remember anything, and I was driving a car drunk out of my skull. Then on that fatal day, I realised I needed help, so I got it,” he recalled matter of factly.
“I phoned up a group of people like me – alcoholics. That was it. It’s over.”
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Anthony Hopkins has been sober for 49 years (Image: Anthony Hopkins Instagram)
Assuring people that his life improved dramatically following his decision to quit he continued: “I’ve had more fun these 49 years than ever.
“If you do have a problem – having fun is wonderful, having a drink is fine – but if you are having a problem with the booze, there is help… There’s plenty of help around,” he assured people.
“The one thing I did not realise is that I was not unique. There are thousnds of people around like me. Anyway, I got sober, it sounds a dull word but but I’ve had a wonderful life. They still employ me. They still give me jobs.
“I’m going to be 87 in two days time so I’m celebrating my long life, unexpectedly long life. So you have a problem, you know where to go, phone any inter group, 12 step programme, whatever you can do. Because it is a killer!” He signed off wishing everyone a happy new year.
Fellow actor Richard E Grant responded to the post with a series of applause emojis. Meanwhile supermodel Elle Macpherson wrote: “Happy anniversary angel man – you inspired me more than you may ever know.” Actress Davina Taylor simply posted a praying hands emoji in support. Fans were also quick to express their admiration for his honesty and congratulations on reaching the landmark with many sharing their own stories.
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Anthony Hopkins smiled as he spoke about howgreat his life was since getting sober 49 years ago (Image: Anthony Hopkins Instagram)
“Happy 49 years Sir. 23 years over here. Absolutely on point: best years without a doubt,” one person shared. Another shared a similar sentiment writing: “Congratulations on 49 years sir! I just celebrated my first year sober this past month and I wouldn’t give up my sobriety for anything in the world.”
“Congratulations! Happy 87th Birthday! Thank you for this post, may it be a help to many! Happy New Year to you also!” a third chimed in.
“Congratulations on 49 years! That is a huge accomplishment! Happy New Year! Sobriety changed the life of a close family member of mine (and my life, in turn). Well done!” a fourth applauded.
Another told how he inspired them commenting: “Congratulations!! Remember seeing you in The Chelsea Stockpot in 1988 (you’d of been 10 years sober or so) and thinking if it’s good enough for you, it’s good enough for me… it’s still good for me! When I stopped in 1986 someone who was 30 days clean/sober seemed like a god!”