Anthony Hopkins celebrates 45 years of sobriety

'Forty-five years ago today, I had a wake-up call. I was headed for disaster, I was drinking myself to death,' the Oscar-winning actor said in a video message.

Anthony Hopkins is capping off 2020 with a word of encouragement to his fans.

On Dec 30, the revered Oscar-winning actor uploaded a video on Twitter and Instagram of himself announcing he is celebrating 45 years of sobriety.

"Forty-five years ago today, I had a wake-up call. I was headed for disaster, I was drinking myself to death. I'm not preachy, but I got a message. A little thought that said, 'Do you want to live or die?' And I said, 'I want to live.' And suddenly the relief came and my life has been amazing."

The 82-year-old admitted his sobriety journey has its ups and downs: "I have my off days and sometimes little bits of doubt and all that."

But he encouraged those going through something similar to remain steadfast.

"All in all, I say 'hang in there.' Today is the tomorrow you were so worried about yesterday.

"Young people, don't give up. Just keep in there. Keep fighting. Be bold. Mighty forces will come to your aid. That's sustained me through my life."

With gratitude, I celebrate 45 years of sobriety. pic.twitter.com/fxzMRGlI4m — Anthony Hopkins (@AnthonyHopkins) December 29, 2020