Sir Anthony Hopkins has opened up about how his struggle with alcoholism nearly ended his life. The 87-year-old Welsh actor reflects on the deep regrets of leaving his first wife and baby daughter in his upcoming memoir We Did Ok, Kid, set to be released Tuesday.
The Academy Award-winning performer shared that heavy drinking was normalized both in his family and in the theatre world. Over time, this habit spiraled out of control—he began arguing with directors and even appeared on stage intoxicated.
“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.”
Hopkins explained that rebellion once felt natural and even enjoyable, but it soon became dangerous.
“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.’”
Hopkins reflects on his battle with alcohol and personal regrets in his new memoir, revealing the dark consequences of a once-celebrated rebellious spirit.