It has been almost five full decades thatAnthony Hopkinshas been sober, and reaching another year without going back has the actor hopeful that this accomplishment will serve as an inspiration to others. On Instagram, the Oscar-winning actor posted a video of himself addressing his previous struggles before overcoming addiction. From there, he offers some kind words for his fans, wanting everyone to “be kind” to themselves as well as to others.
“I’m celebrating 47 years today of sobriety,” Hopkins says in the footage. “This is a message not meant to be heavy, but I hope helpful. I am arecovering alcoholic, and to you out there, I know there are people struggling. In this day and age of cancel and hatred and non-compromise, children being bullied, I say to this: 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.”
The star ofThe Fatheradds, “47 years ago I was in a desperate situation, in despair, and probably not long to live. And I just had to acknowledge one day that there was something really wrong with me, but I didn’t realize that it was a kind of condition… mental, physical, emotional condition called alcoholism, or addiction. 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.”
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Anthony Hopkins Says His Addiction Made Him Hard to Work With
Thinking back upon his struggles, Hopkins goes on to acknowledge that when he was an alcoholic, he was practically unbearable to work with. He attributes having attitude problems to showing up to work with a hangover, just one way that his demons had been controlling his life at the time. Believing that life is so much better sober, having experienced both sides, Hopkins encourages anyone who’s struggling to get help and do whatever it takes to better their own lives.
“Don’t let yourself be put down,” Hopkins notes. “Depression is part of being alive, sometimes as is anxiety. Life is tough. But if you need help, with any addiction or problem, talk to someone. Talk to someone you respect, whether it’s a counselor, or to go to a 12-step program. There are 12-step programs all over the world.”
Ending with a final plea for fans to get help if they need it, Hopkins concludes, “So wherever you are, get help. Don’t be ashamed. Be proud of yourselves, whatever you do. Don’t let anyone put you down, don’t letanyoneput you down. If you’re gonna be angry, be angry at them. Celebrate yourself, as I do myself, although I know nothing. Lots of love.”
You can watch the full video below, which was originally posted to theInstagram accountof Anthony Hopkins.
