Anthony Hopkins celebrates 49 years of sobriety ahead of 87th birthday

Anthony Hopkins is celebrating another precious milestone ahead of his 87th birthday.

Taking to Instagram, the Oscar-winning actor shared his journey with sobriety two days ahead of his birthday via a video, where he recounted the moment he decided to quit drinking.

“Forty-nine years ago today, I stopped,” the star said in the clip, as he mimed a drinking gesture. “And I was having such fun. But then I realised I was in big, big trouble because I couldn’t remember anything and I was driving a car drunk out of my skull.”

“Then on that fatal day, I realised I needed help. So I got it,” he continued. "I phoned up a group of people like me—alcoholic. And that was it. Sober. I’ve had more fun these 49 years than ever."

Hopkins went on to assure any viewer struggling with alcoholism to know they are not alone.

“If you do have a problem—having fun is wonderful, having a drink is fine—but if you are having a problem with the booze, there is help,” Hopkins said. “It’s not a terrible deal—it’s a condition if you’re allergic to alcohol. Get some help. There’s plenty of help around.”

The Mary star went on to inspire his fans with his example, where he was getting employed again once he broke free from addiction.

“One thing I didn’t realise, I was not unique. There are thousands of people around like me. Anyway, I got sober and, it sounds a dull word, but I’ve had a wonderful life. They still employ me, they still give me jobs.”

“I’m going to be 87 in two day’s time. So I’m celebrating my long life — unexpectedly long life,” he said of his plans on his birthday, which falls on December 31. 

“So if you have a problem, you know where to go. Phone any intergroup, 12-step program, whatever you could do. Because it is a killer," he insisted.

He concluded his message, "With that, Happy New Year!” as he blew a kiss.

“One day at a time. 49 years. Life is in session," read his caption to the video.