Sir Anthony Hopkins has celebrated being 49 years sober in a post expressing gratitude for his “unexpectedly long life”.
The Oscar-winning actor, known for films including The Silence Of The Lambs and Nixon, reflected on his “wonderful life” ahead of his 87th birthday on December 31.
In a video posted to Instagram, he said: “49 years ago today I stopped (drinking).
“And I was having such fun, but then I realised I was in big, big trouble because I couldn’t remember anything.
“And I was driving a car drunk out of my skull. Then, on that fateful day, I realised I needed help, so I got it.
“I formed up a group of people like me, alcoholic, and that was it.
“Anyway, I’ve had more fun these 49 years than ever.
“If you do have a problem, having fun is wonderful, having a drink is fine.
“But if you are having a problem with the booze, there is help.
“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.
“One thing I didn’t realise (is) that I was not unique. There are thousands of people around…
“Anyway, I got sober and, sounds a dull word, but I’ve had a wonderful life. They still employ me. They still give me jobs.
“I’m going to be 87 in two days time. So I’m celebrating my long life, unexpectedly long life.
“So if you have a problem, you know where to go, phone any intergroup, 12 step programme, whatever you can do, because it is a killer. With that, Happy New Year.”
A number of celebrities left comments including Saltburn actor Richard E Grant, who posted the clapping emoji, and US actor Josh Brolin who wished Sir Anthony a “happy 49 years”.
In 1992, Sir Anthony won the Academy Award for best actor for his performance as Hannibal Lecter in The Silence Of The Lambs.
He scooped a second Oscar for best actor in 2021 for The Father, becoming the oldest winner of the award.
