Anthony Hopkins achieved widespread recognition for his unforgettable portrayal of Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs, a performance that earned him the prestigious Academy Award for Best Actor. Despite his illustrious career, the 86-year-old actor had previously battled with alcohol addiction, an experience he has always been open about.
In a recent post to mark a significant milestone for his birthday and 48th year of sobriety, Hopkins reflected on his enduring career and his addiction struggles. The actor also took the opportunity to extend New Year’s wishes to his fans, reflecting on both his enduring career and personal journey towards recovery.
In a video posted on Instagram on Friday, 29 December, the actor, while wishing fans a happy New Year, took time to reflect on his decision to quit drinking. “Hello there, Happy New Year to you all!” Hopkins began. “All of you revellers and drinkers, all having fun. Wonderful!”
Hopkins, who got sober in December 1975, encouraged his fans, who are also facing the same challenge to seek help just like he did. “Happy New Year, have a great time. If you get a hangover, remember me, I don’t get them anymore because 48 years ago today, I stopped. I got help for it and my life changed,” he added. “I don’t envy you having fun out there, but if you need help, there’s a time. Life is in session. Go for it.”
Hopkins’s video has received praise from a handful of his 4.8 million followers, with many of them expressing their happiness at his long-standing sobriety journey. “Congrats on 48 years sober,” a fan wrote. “What an inspiration you are. Happy New Year, Tony.”
“Inspiration & this may be my year, Thank you Tony!! You’re absolutely one of my heroes!” another fan commented. “To 48 years of courage, resilience, and transformation. Your journey is a testament to the power of recovery. Congratulations!” someone else wrote.
Some of his fans were also enthusiastic about sharing their personal sobriety stories. “Congratulations. My husband stopped 7 years ago,” a fan confessed. “The best thing that ever happened to him.”
“Congratulations on 48!!! I got 2 years and 2 months in and they have been the most meaningful days of my life! Thanks for the encouragement,” another person commented.
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