Born on December 31, 1937, in Port Talbot, Wales, Sir Philip Anthony Hopkins has become one of the most revered actors in the world, known for his extraordinary range and unforgettable characters in both theater and film. With a career spanning over six decades, Hopkins has earned countless accolades, including two Academy Awards for Best Actor—one for his chilling portrayal of Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs (1991), and another for his moving performance in The Father (2021), making him the oldest actor ever to win the award at age 83.
Early Life and Education
Anthony Hopkins was born to Muriel Anne Yeats and Richard Arthur Hopkins, growing up in the industrial town of Port Talbot. His early education included attending the West Monmouth School in Pontypool and later the Cowbridge Grammar School in the Vale of Glamorgan.
Inspired by the legendary Welsh actor Richard Burton, Hopkins was determined to pursue a career in acting. He enrolled at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama in Cardiff, graduating in 1957. Further refining his craft, Hopkins attended the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, where his talent began to truly shine.
A Storied Career
Hopkins’ rise to fame was meteoric. His big break came in 1991 with The Silence of the Lambs, where he portrayed the iconic and terrifying Hannibal Lecter.
His performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor and solidified his place as a leading figure in Hollywood. But this was just the beginning. Hopkins continued to captivate audiences with his portrayals of complex and diverse characters in films like The Remains of the Day (1993), Nixon (1995), Amistad (1997), and The Two Popes (2019), each time earning critical acclaim and multiple nominations for prestigious awards.
Hopkins’ extraordinary skill and depth as an actor have kept him relevant and respected for more than half a century. His second Oscar win for The Father in 2021 was a testament to his unparalleled ability to bring truth and humanity to every role, even as he entered his 80s.
A Life Beyond the Spotlight
In addition to his iconic career, Hopkins’ personal life has seen its own share of milestones. He has been married three times: first to Petronella Barker (1966–1972), with whom he has a daughter, Abigail; then to Jennifer Lynton (1973–2002); and since 2003, to Stella Arroyave. Though his fame has brought him global recognition, he has often kept his private life out of the public eye, preferring to focus on his craft and his family.
Looking Back and Reflecting Forward: A Memoir
At the age of 87, Hopkins announced that he would release his memoir, We Did OK, Kid, on November 4, 2025.
The book promises to offer a candid look into his challenging childhood, his remarkable rise in the acting world, and his personal battles, including his journey to sobriety, which he has maintained for nearly 50 years. Along with insights into his career, the memoir will include a collection of personal photographs, offering fans a rare glimpse into his private life and thoughts.
As Sir Anthony Hopkins reflects on his life, it’s clear that his journey has been nothing short of extraordinary—an actor who has not only mastered his craft but has also lived a life full of growth, triumphs, and resilience. With his memoir set to offer even more depth into the man behind the legendary roles, Hopkins continues to inspire generations of actors, fans, and individuals everywhere.