Anthony Hopkins has long been regarded as one of Hollywood's greatest legends. However, behind that iconic screen presence lies a complex individual with a tempestuous past. In 'We Did OK, Kid: A Memoir', the actor shares intimate details about his formative years and journey to stardom.
Born in Port Talbot, Wales, Hopkins grew up in a working-class family where his father's rugged charm and wit played a significant role in shaping young Anthony's personality. His dad, Richard Arthur Hopkins, was a scene-stealing supporting player who struggled with the Bible and didn't believe in showing emotions, but possessed a wistful romanticism that would influence his son's life.
Hopkins' own academic journey was marked by struggles, particularly when he had to recite John Masefield's poem 'The West Wind' in an English lesson without prior preparation. This moment sparked a passion for poetry and drama that eventually led him to join the YMCA theatre club and Rada (the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art). His talent and perseverance paid off, and within 10 years of leaving school, he was on stage with Laurence Olivier at the Old Vic.
However, Hopkins' professional life has not been without its challenges. He famously quit the National Theatre company in a fit of pique, causing Laurence Olivier's dismay and disapproval. This decision ultimately led to more prominent roles in film and television, including his iconic portrayal of Dr. Lecter in 'The Silence of the Lambs'. Hopkins' success on screen has been built on his dedication, discipline, and talent.
Despite his fame, Hopkins has spoken candidly about his struggles with addiction and his hot temper. However, it appears that he has largely overcome these personal demons, replacing his former persona with a more studied and composed individual. While some anecdotes in the memoir feel slightly incongruous, they offer a glimpse into the complexities of an actor who has mastered the art of transformation.
The book concludes with Hopkins sharing his favourite poems, which holds a special place in his heart and represents the discipline and transcendental power that have driven him to success. In 'We Did OK, Kid: A Memoir', Anthony Hopkins offers an intimate look into his life, revealing the intricate interplay between his childhood experiences and the triumphs of his remarkable career.
Born in Port Talbot, Wales, Hopkins grew up in a working-class family where his father's rugged charm and wit played a significant role in shaping young Anthony's personality. His dad, Richard Arthur Hopkins, was a scene-stealing supporting player who struggled with the Bible and didn't believe in showing emotions, but possessed a wistful romanticism that would influence his son's life.
Hopkins' own academic journey was marked by struggles, particularly when he had to recite John Masefield's poem 'The West Wind' in an English lesson without prior preparation. This moment sparked a passion for poetry and drama that eventually led him to join the YMCA theatre club and Rada (the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art). His talent and perseverance paid off, and within 10 years of leaving school, he was on stage with Laurence Olivier at the Old Vic.
However, Hopkins' professional life has not been without its challenges. He famously quit the National Theatre company in a fit of pique, causing Laurence Olivier's dismay and disapproval. This decision ultimately led to more prominent roles in film and television, including his iconic portrayal of Dr. Lecter in 'The Silence of the Lambs'. Hopkins' success on screen has been built on his dedication, discipline, and talent.
Despite his fame, Hopkins has spoken candidly about his struggles with addiction and his hot temper. However, it appears that he has largely overcome these personal demons, replacing his former persona with a more studied and composed individual. While some anecdotes in the memoir feel slightly incongruous, they offer a glimpse into the complexities of an actor who has mastered the art of transformation.
The book concludes with Hopkins sharing his favourite poems, which holds a special place in his heart and represents the discipline and transcendental power that have driven him to success. In 'We Did OK, Kid: A Memoir', Anthony Hopkins offers an intimate look into his life, revealing the intricate interplay between his childhood experiences and the triumphs of his remarkable career.
. The fact that they're releasing a memoir from a 90-year-old legend after all these years just feels like they're trying to cash in on nostalgia 
. And what's up with the title, 'We Did OK, Kid'? It sounds like something a 14-year-old would write 
. Can't they come up with something more original? 
just read this about anthony hopkins' past life and I gotta say... who knew he had a temper lol 
apparently he had some pretty wild moments in his 20s, like quitting the national theatre company on a whim 
but hey at least it paid off for him in the end. always thought of him as this calm & collected guy, but i guess he's not all about being serious and dramatic all the time 
... I don't know, man 
, but it's amazing how much depth and complexity he has behind those piercing eyes 
. I mean, who knew that a working-class upbringing in Wales would shape him into a master of transformation? His dad was like the ultimate scene-stealer 
, but also super emotional (for a guy who didn't show emotions) 
.
. And I love that he's shared his favorite poems in the book – it's like we're getting a glimpse into his inner world 
. The way he talks about overcoming his personal demons is so inspiring, and it's clear that he's been working hard to become the person he is today 
.
.
. And omg, his dad sounds like the ultimate cool uncle - who wouldn't want a dad who steals scenes just by walking into a room?
. His passion for poetry is so inspiring, I've already added 'The West Wind' by John Masefield to my reading list 
. It's amazing how he went from struggling in school to becoming a legend on stage and screen 
. And who wouldn't want to read about his journey from overcoming addiction and finding discipline?
! I mean, who wouldn't want to read about the life of a Hollywood legend? His story is so inspiring, you know? From struggling in school (reciting 'The West Wind' without prep 
) to becoming one of the most iconic actors ever, it's like he defied all odds. And can we talk about his dad for a sec? Sounds like he was super cool 
. Anyway, I love how the book reveals the complexities of Hopkins' personality and how they shaped his career. It's not just about the glamour of Hollywood, but also about the struggles and growth. Highly recommend! 
. I mean, who wouldn't want to play Dr. Lecter? 
and yeah, his addiction struggles are super admirable that he's overcome them and is still kicking 
! the fact that he shares poems in the book is pretty cool too, shows he's still got a creative side going on 
.
but despite all that, he's like a total boss on screen now 
and i love how he talks about poetry and drama being his passion from the start it's so cool how those early experiences shaped him into the person he is today 
and yeah, some of the anecdotes in the book feel a bit off but overall it sounds like a really interesting read 
. Anthony Hopkins' journey is a reminder that we're all complex beings, and it's okay not to have all the answers 
️, and we're finally getting to see the real him behind the mask 
. His story is so inspiring - from struggling in school to becoming a stage legend with Laurence Olivier 
.
. And can we talk about his infamous temper? 
. I'm excited to dive in and learn more about this incredible man 
. It's like, we've all been there, right? And yet, here's this iconic actor who has totally conquered those demons and come out on top. I'm not gonna lie, it's kinda inspiring.
. Plus, the poems he shares at the end are just gorgeous 