Who Was Anthony Hopkins
Sir Philip Anthony Hopkins, a Welsh actor widely regarded for his extraordinary career, has won two Academy Awards. Known to audiences worldwide for his role in The Silence of the Lambs, Hopkins recently opened up about his personal life in his memoir We Did Ok, Kid, released on November 4, 2025.
Early Life and Career
In his memoir, Hopkins reflects on his challenging childhood, his path to fame, and his extensive work in both theater and film, which established him as one of the most accomplished actors of his generation.
Marriage to Petronella Barker
Hopkins married British actress Petronella Barker in September 1967. Barker, then 24 years old and the daughter of actress Pearl Hackney and comedian Eric Barker, appeared in productions such as Othello, A Flea in Her Ear, The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes, and Miss Nightingale.
“What followed were the worst two years of my life.”
Hopkins explained that conflicting personalities and his struggles with alcohol were the main factors that strained their marriage. Despite realizing that they were incompatible, it was too late to repair their relationship as Petronella was already pregnant with their first child.
Aftermath and Reflection
The couple separated in 1972, marking the end of a tumultuous chapter in Hopkins’ personal life. His memoir portrays this period as a difficult yet formative experience that shaped his understanding of relationships and self-discipline.
Author’s Summary
Hopkins’ memoir reveals the complex interplay between his artistic triumphs and personal hardships, offering an honest account of love, loss, and redemption.