Anthony Hopkins Shares Why He Keeps Acting at 86

Anthony Hopkins has been acting for a long time, and he recently opened up about why he continues to do so.

In a recent interview, the legendary Academy Award winner shared what motivates him to stay active in his profession even after an illustrious career.

“Why? Because I’m lucky to be alive,” Hopkins said about his ongoing roles.

“I’m 86, and I wake up in the morning and think, ‘Oh, I’m still here.’ I find that amusing.”

“Unfortunately, many of my contemporaries have passed away, God bless them,” he continued. “But I’m just very grateful to still be here. The wonderful thing is the freedom I now have, knowing with certainty that I cannot take credit for any of it.”

Hopkins elaborated on not taking credit for his life’s journey.

“About 60 years ago, I remember telling my parents, ‘One day, I’ll show you.’ It feels like someone else wrote my life; I didn’t.”

On the topic of his autobiography, Hopkins mentioned he’s not finished yet.

“I’m taking a break from it for a week or so,” the actor revealed. “I’m going away next week, so I’ll start writing it again after that. It’s quite challenging.”

When asked what he enjoys most about writing, he highlighted the personal insights gained through the process.

“The process of self-discovery. I learned a lot about my childhood, which was enlightening,” he said. “I consider myself very lucky. I was given great opportunities in life, although I didn’t always deserve them because I was not very bright in school. My parents sacrificed a lot for my education. I felt like I let them down initially. Then one day, I vowed to make them proud, and they lived to see it, which was wonderful.”

Regarding his future projects, Hopkins will be seen as Emperor Vespasian in the Peacock series “Those About to Die,” debuting on July 18. The series spans a 10-episode first season, set in the year 79 CE in Ancient Rome, featuring chariot racers and an emperor keen on securing his historical legacy.

“It was a big production,” he noted. “And it’s good.”

Despite his television commitments, Hopkins is best known for his roles in iconic films such as “The Elephant Man” (1980), “The Remains of the Day” (1993), “Nixon” (1995), “Legends of the Fall” (1994), and the “Thor” franchise (2011-2017).

Hopkins has won two Academy Awards. One for his chilling role as Hannibal Lecter in “The Silence of the Lambs” (1991), and another for his poignant performance as an octogenarian with dementia in “The Father” (2020).

It seems that Anthony Hopkins has no plans of slowing down. With his new series and autobiography in the pipeline, this legendary actor continues to captivate and inspire.

Source: Deadline