Sir Anthony Hopkins has shared an inspiring video on Instagram ahead of the New Year, in which he reflected on 47 years of sobriety.
The 84 year old actor also shared a message of support to young people who are being bullied, as well as anyone suffering from mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
The legendary actor looked fit and well, wearing a black long-sleeved jumper as he spoke behind a plush leather chair, which appeared to be in some sort of meeting room.
He said: "I just want to wish you a happy new year, and also to say I'm celebrating 47 years today of sobriety."
Speaking candidly, he went on: "I am a recovering alcoholic, and to you out there, know that there are people struggling… Be kind to yourself, be proud of your life."
He described how 47 years ago, he was in a "desperate situation in despair" and "probably didn't have long to live" at the height of his addiction to alcohol.
Sir Anthony said: "I just happened to acknowledge one day that there was something wrong with me. I didn't realise that it was a kind of condition.
"A mental, physical, emotional condition called alcoholism or addiction."
He went on to offer some inspiring advice to people who are being bullied, telling them to "be proud of yourself" and "don't listen to them."
He then advised anyone who is suffering with "any addiction or problem" to "talk to someone," such as a counsellor or going to a 12-step programme.
His celebrity friends rushed to the comments section to laud him for his honesty, including former supermodel Naomi Campbell who has been sober since 2008 after a battle with alcoholism and cocaine addiction.
She wrote: "Thank you Sir @anthonyhopkins you are shining beacon of light , you inspire me on my journey in recovery.."
Hugh Jackman, star of The Greatest Showman, wrote: "Well said!" and Alec Baldwin added: "My love to you."
Sting's wife Trudie Styler commented: "Tony -this is such an important and inspiring message .I send you much love and immense gratitude for your affirmations and guidance to all who are suffering the slings and arrows of life’s misfortunes."
Anthony made the choice to get sober in 1975, after he had the stark realisation at the age of 37 that he was "drinking himself to death," which he called a "wakeup call".
He shared another inspiring video in 2020 where he said: "'You young people, don’t give up, just keep in there, just keep fighting. Be bold and mighty forces will come to your aid,' he said in a video in 2020."
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