Anthony Hopkins Celebrates 47 Years of Sobriety In Motivational Video: 'Wishing Everyone A Healthy 2023'
By Favour Adegoke on January 1, 2023 at 9:00 AM EST
British actor Anthony Hopkins is rooting for self-love and self-awareness as he shares an inspiring message ahead of the New Year.
Hopkins took to social media to declare that he is celebrating 47 years of not "resorting to the bottle" and asked people who are struggling to get help wherever they are and not be ashamed of it.
The actor reminisced on the "desperate situation, in despair" he went through about 50 years ago when he felt the end was near, adding that religion saved him.
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Anthony Hopkins Celebrates 47 Years of Sobriety
Announcing his 47th year without alcohol, "The Two Popes" actor Hopkins was all smiles as he posted an encouraging message on Instagram about the importance of loving yourself.
Hopkins started by wishing everyone a happy new year and went on to disclose that he was celebrating 47 years of sobriety. He highlighted that his message was meant to give hope to those struggling, not condemn or be heavy.
"In this day and age of cancel and hatred and non-compromise, children being bullied, I say [this]: Be kind to yourself," he said in the video per People Magazine. "Be kind. Stay out of the circle of toxicity with people if they offend you. Live your life. Be proud of your life."
The actor joked that he's "an old sinner, like everyone" and added that he's "not a do-gooder," but nonetheless has "the best life he could [ever] imagine."
The A-list actor captioned the post, "Wishing everyone a healthy 2023."
Anthony Hopkins Says Religion Saved Him
The two-time Oscar winner went on to recall his "desperate situation, in despair" about 50 years ago, when he was so in love with the bottle.
"I just had to acknowledge one day that there was something really wrong with me," he stated. "I didn't realize that it was a kind of condition — mental, physical, emotional condition called alcoholism or addiction. And I'm not an expert on drugs — I'm not an expert on anything. I know nothing. Except I have found a life where no one bullies me."
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Hopkins had earlier disclosed that he picked up acting as a career because he "had nothing better to do," adding that his drinking became a problem while working in theater "because that's what you do in theater, you drink."
Remorsefully acknowledging that he "was very difficult to work with" because he was usually "hungover," Hopkins claimed that the change in his life was brought on by the counsel he received from a woman at an AA meeting in December 1975.
Per People, Hopkins recalled the woman asking, "Why don't you just trust in God?" and from there, he said that the craving to drink was taken from him, "never to return."
"I believe that we are capable of so much," Hopkins said at the time. "From my own life, I still can't believe that my life is what it is because I should have died drunk in Wales or something."
He Had Words Of Hope For People Struggling
The Welsh actor went on to share a soul-lifting message with those who are struggling and suffering from one form of addiction or another.
"I want to say to all you young people who are being bullied, take heed — you be proud of yourself," Hopkins said. "Don't listen to them. Don't let yourself be put down. Depression is part of being alive, sometimes [as is] anxiety. Life is tough."
The veteran actor went on to add that if they needed help with any addiction or problem, they'd best talk to someone.
"Talk to someone you respect, whether it's a counselor or to go to a 12-step program," Hopkins advised. "There are 12-step programs all over the world, every city. ... Twelve-step programs that can help you identify what you are. It doesn't cost a thing, but it will give you a whole new life."
"So wherever you are, get help. Don't be ashamed," the actor encouraged. "Be proud of yourselves, whatever you do. Don't let anyone put you down. If you're gonna be angry, be angry at them. ... Celebrate yourself."
Tons Of Reactions Trailed Anthony Hopkins Message
Following the actor's inspiring message, many people went on ahead to share what they thought about it.
Hopkins "The Son" co-star Hugh Jackman noted, "Well said." A very inspired fan wrote, "What a genuinely nice guy. Thanks Anthony, that talk made a difference for me."
Another fan, while appreciating the actor, pointed out that talking about it will save thousands of lives and that there is always a solution. "Thank you, kind sir. I will save this message always. Sober here as well. 6 years and nothing but better," noted a sober fan.
A grateful follower of the actor added, "a fabulous message. I honor you for your honesty. To have someone as respected as you share their story and encourage people to be proud of themselves and seek help when they need it is incredibly powerful, valuable, and important."
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