Anthony Hopkins' memoir, 'We Did OK, Kid,' offers a candid look into the life of one of Hollywood's most iconic actors. Born in Port Talbot, Wales, Hopkins recounts the tumultuous childhood that shaped him into a legend with a temper.
Growing up as the son of Richard Arthur Hopkins, a scene-stealing supporting player and a "man's man," Anthony was a vulnerable and bewildered child who struggled to connect with his father. The elder Hopkins' stoic demeanor and aversion to emotions left a lasting impact on Anthony, who later described himself as "a lot of things: angry, confused, ashamed."
Despite facing rejection and struggling academically, Hopkins found solace in acting. He recalls a pivotal moment at school when reciting John Masefield's poem 'The West Wind' stunned his teacher and classmates. This marked the beginning of his journey to becoming a renowned actor.
As he transitioned from stage to screen, Hopkins experienced numerous highs and lows. His temper often got the better of him, leading to public outbursts, including quitting the National Theatre company in a fit of pique. However, with luck on his side, he landed roles that catapulted him to stardom, such as his iconic portrayal of Dr. Hannibal Lecter.
Hopkins' autobiography offers a glimpse into his personal life, including his battle with addiction and his relationships. While some anecdotes feel forced, the memoir shines in its candid portrayal of the actor's struggles and triumphs. As Hopkins himself puts it, "He cannot flatter, he! An honest mind and plain – he must speak truth!"
The book concludes with a unique appendices featuring Hopkins' favorite poems, showcasing his affinity for literature and his dedication to mastering the craft. It is here that we find the true essence of Anthony Hopkins: a man who has mastered the art of playing complex characters, but still struggles to reconcile his own emotions and demons.
Throughout 'We Did OK, Kid,' Hopkins comes across as a multifaceted individual – both brilliant and flawed. He recounts confronting an obnoxious director with fiery passion, yet also describes quitting booze in 1975 as a turning point in his life. The memoir humanizes the actor, revealing that even legends have insecurities and struggles.
Ultimately, 'We Did OK, Kid' is not just a memoir but a testament to Hopkins' enduring legacy. It serves as a reminder that success is often tempered by struggle, and that the most remarkable achievements are born from vulnerability and perseverance.
Growing up as the son of Richard Arthur Hopkins, a scene-stealing supporting player and a "man's man," Anthony was a vulnerable and bewildered child who struggled to connect with his father. The elder Hopkins' stoic demeanor and aversion to emotions left a lasting impact on Anthony, who later described himself as "a lot of things: angry, confused, ashamed."
Despite facing rejection and struggling academically, Hopkins found solace in acting. He recalls a pivotal moment at school when reciting John Masefield's poem 'The West Wind' stunned his teacher and classmates. This marked the beginning of his journey to becoming a renowned actor.
As he transitioned from stage to screen, Hopkins experienced numerous highs and lows. His temper often got the better of him, leading to public outbursts, including quitting the National Theatre company in a fit of pique. However, with luck on his side, he landed roles that catapulted him to stardom, such as his iconic portrayal of Dr. Hannibal Lecter.
Hopkins' autobiography offers a glimpse into his personal life, including his battle with addiction and his relationships. While some anecdotes feel forced, the memoir shines in its candid portrayal of the actor's struggles and triumphs. As Hopkins himself puts it, "He cannot flatter, he! An honest mind and plain – he must speak truth!"
The book concludes with a unique appendices featuring Hopkins' favorite poems, showcasing his affinity for literature and his dedication to mastering the craft. It is here that we find the true essence of Anthony Hopkins: a man who has mastered the art of playing complex characters, but still struggles to reconcile his own emotions and demons.
Throughout 'We Did OK, Kid,' Hopkins comes across as a multifaceted individual – both brilliant and flawed. He recounts confronting an obnoxious director with fiery passion, yet also describes quitting booze in 1975 as a turning point in his life. The memoir humanizes the actor, revealing that even legends have insecurities and struggles.
Ultimately, 'We Did OK, Kid' is not just a memoir but a testament to Hopkins' enduring legacy. It serves as a reminder that success is often tempered by struggle, and that the most remarkable achievements are born from vulnerability and perseverance.
I gotta say, readin' this about Anthony Hopkins' memoir had me hooked from start to finish! 
The way he talks about his childhood, strugglin' with rejection and academically, but findin' solace in acting... it's like you can feel the emotions pourin' outta every page. 
And the part about how his temper got him into trouble, even quittin' the National Theatre company? 
That's some real talk right there.
And let's be real, who doesn't love a good story about someone strugglin' with addiction and findin' their way out? 
It gives you a glimpse into his creative side and shows us that there's more to him than just bein' Dr. Hannibal Lecter (which, let's be real, is an iconic role). 
I'm loving this candid take on Anthony Hopkins' life! I think it's so relatable how he struggled with his emotions growing up, especially with his dad being such a tough guy to connect with 
But what I love most is that he's still struggling to reconcile his own demons – it makes him so human 
. And can we talk about how awesome it is that he shares his favorite poems? It's a great reminder that even legends have a soft spot for literature 
. The part that really stood out to me, though, was when he talks about quitting booze in 1975 – what a turning point! It just goes to show that we're all works in progress, and it takes courage to face our struggles head-on 
Anthony Hopkins' memoir sounds like a must-read for anyone fascinated by Hollywood legends! I love how he opens up about his childhood struggles and how it shaped him into the actor we know today 
. It's refreshing to see someone so iconic be humanized, you know? The way he talks about his addiction battles and relationships is super relatable 
. I'm a huge fan of his work in film (who isn't?! 
), but it's amazing how this memoir shows there's more to him than just his acting skills 
Overall, 'We Did OK, Kid' sounds like an unforgettable read 
. I think what's great about this book is that it humanizes him - even legends have flaws 
. It's also awesome that he shares his favorite poems and thoughts on writing - he must be super passionate about literature 
.
I gotta say, reading about Anthony Hopkins' life in his memoir 'We Did OK, Kid' really got me thinking. He's always been an iconic actor, but this book gives you a glimpse into his real struggles and insecurities. It's like, even at the top of his game, he still had to deal with his temper and demons. I mean, who hasn't had those days where they just feel overwhelmed? 
i've read it now tho & i gotta say anthony hopkins' story is wild 
his childhood sounds super tough but also kinda fascinating? like who needs that kind of drama in their life, you know? anyway, i love how he talks about struggling with addiction & finding solace in acting – it's so true for a lot of people. and omg the part where he quits booze in 1975 is like my personal savior moment 
what can you do when your demons are as loud as his temper tho? still, i think this memoir is a great reminder that even with all our flaws & struggles, we can still be brilliant & master the art of playing complex characters 
But seriously, it's amazing how he was able to find solace in acting and turn his life around. His story is like a reminder that we're all complex individuals with our own insecurities and demons 
but also shows this vulnerable side. I love how he talks about finding solace in acting and how it changed his life.
But what I think really stands out is how honest he is about his flaws. We're humanized to bits! The part that resonates most w/ me is when he talks about finding his voice & mastering acting – as someone who's struggled to express themselves (online or offline), I can appreciate the process