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Sir Anthony Hopkins has celebrated 47 years of sobriety by sending a special message to his fans.
The legendary actor took to his Instagram to tell his fans that while didn’t wish for his video to be ‘heavy’, he wanted to extend his support to those grappling with addiction.
He said: “I am a recovering 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.
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“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 actor went on to say that 47 years ago, he was in a ‘desperate situation’ and close to death; however, once he acknowledged he had a problem, he could seek help.
He said: “I just had to realize there was something really wrong with me. But I didn’t realize it was a kind of condition – a mental, physical, emotional condition called alcoholism or addiction.”
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The Silence of the Lambs star also urged his struggling fans to consider treatment or talk to a ‘counsellor or undergo a '12-step program’.
He concluded: “It doesn’t cost a thing. But it will give you a whole new life.
“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.
"So wherever you are, get help, don’t be ashamed, be proud of yourself.”
Many praised Hopkins for his uplifting sentiment, as one person wrote: “Beautiful message and 47 years! Congratulations and thank you for posting. I needed this today.”
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Another said: “We need more people like you in this world. Congratulations! YOU are a Blessing!”
While a third person shared: “Thank you for your inspiring words as I navigate my journey of recovery. Immensely helpful always.”
In 2021, Hopkins opened up about his alcoholism, and while he has ‘regrets’, he has learnt to ‘get on with life’.
He told the Sunday Times that his addiction was fueled by the belief that he didn’t deserve his success as an actor.
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Hopkins said: “In my case I had these peculiar conflicts - I didn't feel I fitted into my own skin. I felt deeply guilty and ashamed and not worthy of the luck I'd had as an actor.”
He added: “When I asked for help and I realized I wasn't alone, that there were thousands of people like me, all my fears began to dissolve.”
Topics: News, Celebrity, Mental Health, Health