Anthony Hopkins celebrates 49 years of sobriety.
Just two days before his 87th birthday, the Oscar-winning actor posted a video on Instagram to share the story of the moment he decided to stop drinking.
“Forty-nine years ago today, I stopped,” the star said in the clip as he mimicked a drinking gesture. “And I had so much fun. But then I realized I was in big, big trouble because I couldn’t remember anything and I was driving the car drunk out of my head.”
“That’s when I realized on that fateful day that I needed help. So I figured it out,” he continued. “I called a group of people like me – alcoholics. And that was it. Sober. I’m having more fun than I’ve ever had in 49 years.”
Using his platform to inspire those struggling with alcoholism, Hopkins continued to tell his fans how to get help, reminding them that they are not alone.
“If you have a problem – partying is great, drinking is fine – but if you have a drinking problem, there is help,” Maria said the star. “It’s not a terrible thing — it’s a condition if you’re allergic to alcohol. Seek help. There is plenty of help around.”
He continued: “One thing I didn’t understand, I wasn’t unique. There are thousands of people like me around me. Basically, I got sober and, it sounds boring, but I had a wonderful life. They still hire me, they still give me jobs.”
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Hopkins’ inspiring message comes as he is set to turn 87 on December 31, New Year’s Day, a holiday often associated with heavy drinking. So his advice could be timely for those hoping for a dry January in 2025.
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“In two days I will be 87 years old. So I’m celebrating my long life — an unexpectedly long life,” he said in his video. “So if you have a problem, you know where to go. Call any breakout group, 12-step program, whatever you can do. Because he’s a killer.”
He ended his message with the words: “Happy New Year!” while blowing a kiss.
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The actor’s video — which he captioned, “One day at a time. 49 years. Life goes on” — has already received more than 250,000 likes.
Anthony Hopkins plays the piano.
Anthony Hopkins/Instagram
Just days earlier, Hopkins shared another video on Instagram, this one about spreading Christmas cheer.
He treated fans to a little performance on the piano and jokingly wrote: “It’s a time to be merry. Available for weddings, birthdays and special occasions… FOR FUN AND FREE.”
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Source: HIS Education