Anthony Hopkins, known for his chilling portrayal of a cannibalistic killer in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’, is regarded as one of the greatest actors alive. Starting his career as a stage performer, he thrived under the guidance of the legendary Laurence Olivier. However, seeking a change, he transitioned to television and movies, making his mark with roles in ‘The Lion in Winter’ and ultimately reaching the peak of success with his Academy Award-winning performance as Hannibal Lecter. With a career spanning over six decades, Hopkins has earned numerous awards and accolades, solidifying his status as a true acting legend.
Quick Facts
- Also Known As: Sir Philip Anthony Hopkins
- Age: 85 Years, 85 Year Old Males
- Family:
- Spouse/Ex-: Stella Arroyave (m. 2003), Jennifer Lynton (m. 1973–2002), Petronella Barker (m. 1967–1972)
- Father: Richard Arthur Hopkins
- Mother: Muriel Anne (née Yeats)
- Children: Abigail Hopkins
- Born Country: Wales
- Quotes By Anthony Hopkins
- Actors
- Height: 5’9″ (175 cm), 5’9″ Males
- Notable Alumni: Cowbridge Grammar School
- Personality: ISTJ
- Education: Royal Academy Of Dramatic Art, Cowbridge Grammar School
Childhood & Early Life
Anthony Hopkins was born on December 31, 1937. He is the son of Richard Hopkins, a baker, and his wife Muriel Anne. Growing up, he was very close to his grandfather. Despite being dyslexic, he had a passion for painting and playing the piano, but he was not interested in studies. In 1949, his parents sent him to West Monmouth Boys School to teach him discipline. However, he left the school after a few months and continued his education at Cowbridge Grammar School. It was during this time that he had a chance meeting with Welsh actor Richard Burton, which sparked his interest in acting. He then enrolled at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff and graduated in 1957. He served in the British Army for two years before attending The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
Career
Anthony Hopkins began his career in 1960 with the play ‘Have a Cigarette’ produced by the Palace Theatre, Swansea. He caught the attention of celebrated British actor Sir Laurence Olivier, who took him as an understudy at the Royal National Theatre in 1965. However, Hopkins soon grew bored of the monotony of theater and desired to break into the world of television and films. He made his film debut as Richard the Lionheart in ‘The Lion in Winter’ in 1968, which was a huge success. This led to many more movie offers, and he appeared in several films throughout the 1970s and 1980s, earning critical praise for his performances. In 1991, he portrayed the iconic character Hannibal Lecter in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’, for which he won various awards.
Major Works
One of Anthony Hopkins’ most notable roles is that of the cold-blooded serial killer Hannibal Lecter in the film ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ (1991). His portrayal of this character is considered one of the greatest film villains of all time. He was also praised for his sensitive and poignant portrayal of Oxford academic C.S. Lewis in the biographical movie ‘Shadowlands’ (1993). Another significant role was his portrayal of New Zealand speed bike racer Burt Munro in the biographical film ‘The World’s Fastest Indian’ (2005).
Awards & Achievements
Anthony Hopkins has received numerous awards throughout his career. He won the Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his performance in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ in 1991. He has also won three BAFTA Awards, two Emmy Awards, and has been nominated for several other prestigious awards.
Personal Life & Legacy
Anthony Hopkins has been married three times. His first marriage was to Petronella Barker from 1966 to 1972, and they have a daughter named Abigail. His second marriage was to Jennifer Lynton in 1973, which lasted for almost 30 years before ending in 2002. He is currently married to his third wife Stella Arroyave, whom he wed in 2003. Hopkins is involved with various charities and is a member of the Greenpeace environmental protection group. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1993 for his contributions to the arts.
Trivia
Despite having a little over 16 minutes of screen time, Anthony Hopkins won the Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his performance in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. He is a recovered alcoholic and is also a musician and composer. He has a wax replica in Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum in Amsterdam.