Anthony Hopkins marks 47 years of sobriety after revealing he was in 'despair'

The Silence Of The Lambs actor previously battled alcohol abuse problems but says he now has 'the best life' he can imagine

Julia Hunt
·Contributor
Updated ·2-min read

Watch: Sir Anthony Hopkins marks sobriety landmark

Anthony Hopkins has said he 'probably' had 'not long to live' when he was battling addiction, as he marked 47 years of sobriety.

The Silence Of The Lambs legend — who has been open his problems with alcohol in the past — posted a moving video on Instagram as he reached the milestone.

He urged those still struggling to reach out for help and not to let anyone put them down.

Anthony Hopkins walks the red carpet during the Oscars arrivals at the 94th Academy Awards in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, U.S., March 27, 2022. REUTERS/Mike Blake
Anthony Hopkins has been sober for 47 years. (REUTERS)

"Hello everyone I just want to wish everyone a happy new year," he said.

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"And also to say I'm celebrating 47 years today of sobriety."

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A post shared by Anthony Hopkins (@anthonyhopkins)

The star, 84, said he wanted his message to be 'helpful' rather than 'heavy', telling fans: "I am a recovering alcoholic, and to you out there, know there are people struggling... be kind to yourself, be kind, stay out of the circle of toxicity with people if they offend you, live your life, be proud of your life."

Hopkins said 47 years ago he was in a 'desperate situation, in despair' and had 'probably not long to live'.

He said one day he acknowledged that there was something wrong.

Anthony Hopkins presents the award for Best Actress at the 94th Academy Awards in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, U.S., March 27, 2022. REUTERS/Brian Snyder
Anthony Hopkins said he probably didn't have long to live. (REUTERS)

"I didn't realise that it was a kind of condition, mental, physical condition called alcoholism or addiction," Hopkins said.

The actor urged anyone struggling, such as young people being bullied, to reach out for help, and recommended 12 step programmes.

Anthony Hopkins Film: The Silence Of The Lambs (USA 1991) Characters: Dr. Hannibal Lecter Director: Jonathan Demme 30 January 1991 **WARNING** This Photograph is for editorial use only and is the copyright of ORION PICTURES and/or the Photographer assigned by the Film or Production Company and can only be reproduced by publications in conjunction with the promotion of the above Film. A Mandatory Credit To ORION PICTURES is required. The Photographer should also be credited when known. No commercial use can be granted without written authority from the Film Company.
Anthony Hopkins in The Silence Of The Lambs. (ORION PICTURES)

"I'm not a do gooder," he said.

"I'm an old sinner like everyone but all I can say is I have the best life I can even imagine and I can't even take credit for it."

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"Don't be ashamed, be proud of yourselves whatever you do, don't let anyone put you down," he said.

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