Unlike his most famous film character, Anthony Hopkins does not celebrate with a nice Chianti.
Hopkins announced his 47-year sobriety Thursday with an Instagram post urging people to seek help with alcohol and other drugs if needed. The Oscar winner turns 85 today and said getting sober saved his life.
“I’m celebrating 47 years of sobriety today,” he said in his video. “This is a message, not meant to be difficult, but I hope it will be helpful. I am a recovering alcoholic. And for you out there – I know there are people out there who have problems. In this day and age of rejection and hate and uncompromising kids being bullied, I say… Be kind to yourself. Be nice. Stay out of the circle of toxicity with people when they offend you. Live your life. Be proud of your life.”
Hopkins continued, “Forty-seven years ago I was in a desperate situation, desperate and probably not going to live much longer. One day I just had to admit there was something wrong with me. I didn’t know it was something disorder – mental, physical, emotional disorder called alcoholism or addiction. I’m not an expert on drugs, I’m not an expert on anything. I don’t know anything. Except I found a life where nobody bullies me.”
Hopkins admits that early in his career he was “really hard to work with” because he was “usually stuck.”
“Don’t let it get you down. Depression is part of life, sometimes anxiety too. Life is hard. But if you need help with an addiction or problem, talk to someone. Talk to someone you respect, whether it’s a counselor or a 12-step program,” Hopkins continued. “It costs nothing, but it gives you a whole new life.”
He concluded with a call to action.
So get help wherever you are. Don’t be shy,” he said Two breaks Added star. “Be proud of yourself, whatever you do. Don’t let anyone get you down. If you get mad, be mad at them…Celebrate yourself.”
Hopkins’ video commentary was praised by some famous friends.
“Well said!” wrote Hugh Jackman.
“Thank you sir… you are a shining beacon, you inspire me on my road to recovery,” said Naomi Campbell. The supermodel has been open about her battle with addiction.
“My love to you,” Alec Baldwin added.
Writer: Bruce Herring
Source: Deadline
Bernice Bonaparte is an author and entertainment journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a passion for pop culture and a talent for staying up-to-date on the latest entertainment news, Bernice has become a trusted source for information on the entertainment industry.
