Anthony Hopkins admits alcohol addiction was going to 'kill' him

Anthony Hopkins Admits Alcohol Addiction Almost Killed Him

Sir Anthony Hopkins, the 87-year-old Welsh actor and Academy Award winner, has openly spoken about how his alcohol addiction nearly ended his life. He also expressed deep regret for leaving his first wife and baby daughter.

In his upcoming memoir We Did Ok, Kid, set to release on Tuesday, Hopkins reflects on the hardships he endured. The Silence of the Lambs star revealed that heavy drinking was not only common in his family but also widespread in the theatre world.

Struggles with Alcohol in the Theatre

Hopkins admitted that his addiction affected his professional life, leading to fights with directors and performing on stage while intoxicated alongside his colleagues.

"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 shared with The Guardian the mindset behind the behavior:

"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."

Yet, he recalls a turning point where he realized the danger:

"But I remember thinking one day: 'Yeah, and it’s going to kill you as well.'"

Author's Summary

Anthony Hopkins' candid memoir reveals his battle with alcohol addiction and the consequences it had on his life and career, marked by moments of rebellion and regret.

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Daily Mail Daily Mail — 2025-11-03

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