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Anthony Hopkins Celebrates 49 Years of Sobriety: “One Day at a Time”
Dec
Anthony Hopkins, the legendary two-time Oscar-winning actor, marked a monumental milestone on Dec. 29, 2024: 49 years of sobriety. In a heartfelt Instagram video, the 86-year-old reflected on his journey and shared an inspiring message for those battling addiction.
“An Unexpectedly Long Life”
“Happy 29th of December. 29th? Why 29th? Well, 49 years ago today, I stopped [drinking],” Hopkins said, making a hand gesture to signify drinking. The actor candidly recounted the wake-up call that led him to seek help. “I was having such fun, but then I realized I was in big, big trouble because I couldn’t remember anything and I was driving a car, drunk out of my skull.”
It was in that moment that Hopkins reached out to a group of people who, like him, were struggling with alcoholism. “That was it. Sober,” he said, emphasizing the profound impact that decision had on his life. “I’ve had more fun in these 49 years than ever.”
A Message of Hope
Using his platform to encourage others facing similar challenges, Hopkins urged anyone struggling with alcohol addiction to seek help. “Having a drink is fine, but if you are having a problem with the booze, there is help,” he said. “It’s not a terrible deal. It’s a condition. If you’re allergic to alcohol, get some help. There’s plenty of help around.”
Hopkins stressed the importance of recognizing that addiction isn’t unique, sharing that there are “thousands of people” facing the same struggles. He expressed gratitude for his own journey, noting that sobriety has allowed him to continue thriving in both his personal and professional life.
Looking Ahead
As he approaches his 87th birthday, Hopkins reflected on his “unexpectedly long life.” He concluded his message with an encouraging call to action: “Phone any intergroup or 12-step program. Alcoholism is a killer.” Blowing a kiss to the camera, he added warmly, “Happy New Year!”
The caption of his video read, “One day at a time. 49 years. Life is in session.”
A Continuing Legacy
This annual tradition of sharing his sobriety journey has become a source of inspiration for many. Hopkins has posted similar messages every Dec. 29 in recent years, offering hope to those struggling with addiction.
In a 2020 interview with The New York Times, Hopkins recounted how his decision to get sober in 1975 came after waking up in an Arizona hotel room with no memory of how he got there. “I thought, ‘Well, I’ve got to stop this because I’m either going to kill somebody or myself,’” he said.
As he celebrates 49 years of sobriety, Hopkins remains a testament to the transformative power of recovery and the importance of taking it “one day at a time.”
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