Anthony Hopkins Details Family Estrangement, Alcohol Struggles in Memoir

Sir Anthony Hopkins, in his memoir "We Did Ok, Kid," reveals the painful estrangement from his daughter Abigail, a consequence of his struggles with depression and alcoholism during his first marriage to Petronella Barker. He recounts a pivotal moment when, fearing he might become violent, he left his family home and never returned, a decision he calls "the saddest fact of my life" but believes was necessary for everyone's well-being. Despite occasional attempts at reconciliation, including casting Abigail in films during the 1990s, the relationship remained fractured, with no contact in recent years. Hopkins' current wife, Stella Arroyave, has tried reaching out to Abigail without success, and while Hopkins expresses acceptance and a desire to move on, friends note that the pain of estrangement still deeply affects him. The memoir also details Hopkins' long battle with alcoholism, including a dangerous blackout-driving incident that marked a turning point in his sobriety journey. Ultimately, Hopkins reflects on imperfection and forgiveness, emphasizing the complexity of familial bonds and his efforts to find peace amid enduring regrets.