Anthony Hopkins Releases Memoir Detailing Childhood, Career, Alcohol Struggles

Anthony Hopkins's memoir, We Did OK, Kid, reveals a candid and poignant look into his challenging childhood in Port Talbot, Wales, his struggles with alcoholism, and his complex relationships, particularly with his estranged daughter Abigail and his first wife Petronella Barker. He reflects on his difficult relationship with his father, Dick, whose emotional volatility left a lasting impact, culminating in a touching moment where Hopkins recited Hamlet to him on his deathbed. Despite his legendary acting career and iconic roles such as Hannibal Lecter, Hopkins attributes much of his success to luck rather than deliberate planning and emphasizes his deep fascination with the complexities of human nature. The memoir is noted for its restraint, avoiding typical celebrity gossip or harsh industry feuds, though it does include some candid critiques, such as describing the late theatre director John Dexter as a "nasty, twisted little sadist." Hopkins also shares his methodical approach to memorizing lines and his early career beginnings under Laurence Olivier's mentorship. Overall, the book offers a sober and introspective portrait of a revered actor grappling with personal regrets and the enigmatic nature of his own life and career.