A Person Close to Anthony Hopkins Believes He May Have a Neurodevelopmental Disorder

Behind the commanding presence and polished performances lies a man shaped by chaos, discipline, and quiet defiance. For the two-time Academy Award–winning legend, the journey from a restless boy in Wales to a global icon has never been about fame — it has been about survival, self-mastery, and the lifelong quest to understand his own mind.

At 87, Sir Anthony Hopkins is taking a hard look back at the forces that shaped him — especially his father. In a raw and unsparing interview, the "Silence of the Lambs" star reflected on a turbulent childhood in Wales and the inner battles that would go on to define his art.

After abandoning his bakery to run a pub in Caerleon, Wales, his father emerged as a commanding figure in Hopkins's early life — a man of fierce pride and unpredictable moods whose influence loomed over the family.

Hopkins described his father's frightening emotional shifts, noting that his moods swung between "highs of manic energy" and dark, brooding lows — patterns the actor now believes would be classified today as bipolar disorder.

As he looked inward, Hopkins admitted he had long wrestled with his own mental state. Although he had once tried therapy, the experience only deepened his skepticism. Finding the process unhelpful, Hopkins said he eventually challenged his therapist's credibility — and walked away.

The implication was clear: he would find his own way out of the darkness. Hopkins also spoke candidly about his long battle with alcoholism — a destructive force that once threatened to derail his soaring success.

In 1975, at the height of his fame, he found himself waking up alone in Arizona, with no memory of driving there from Los Angeles. That terrifying blackout became his breaking point.

Determined to reclaim control, he turned to Alcoholics Anonymous, a decision that changed his life. He has remained sober ever since — a towering testament to his iron will.

In the later years of his life, Hopkins has grown increasingly introspective, taking stock of his own rigid behaviors and obsessive tendencies — patterns spotted early on by his third wife, Stella Arroyave, a 69-year-old Colombian antiques dealer.

"I'm obsessed with numbers. I'm obsessed with detail. I like everything in order. And memorising. Stella looked it up and she said, 'You must be Asperger's.' I didn't know what the hell she was talking about. I don't even believe it," Hopkins said.

When asked about modern mental health diagnoses — including ADHD, OCD, and Asperger's — Hopkins didn't mince words. He flatly dismissed these psychological labels as oversimplifications, arguing that such terms fail to account for the messy, tangled, often contradictory nature of real human lives.

To him, they're nothing more than fashionable boxes — and he refuses to be put in one. Whether discussing his father's illness, his personal descent into addiction, or his wife's unsparing insight, he speaks like a man who has seen it all — and refused to flinch.

From a modest upbringing in Wales to becoming one of the most decorated actors in Hollywood, Hopkins is more than a cinematic icon. Hopkins was born in Port Talbot, Wales, in 1937. He was the only child of his parents. Hopkins did not do well in school, and by the age of seventeen, he dropped out. The youngster was inspired by local actor Richard Burton, whose autograph he obtained at the age of fifteen, and decided to become an actor himself, setting his sights on the stage.

The actor joined the National Theatre in 1960 but was given non-speaking roles in plays. Hopkins was so disgruntled and, with this fierce drive to be a star, confronted the casting director about what he had to do to get leading roles.

During the early 70s, Hopkins became a stage star in London. In 1974, the Welshman moved to America, intending to become a Hollywood star, and soon after, he landed roles in movies like "A Bridge Too Far" and "The Elephant Man."

Here is a look at Hopkins's transformation through the years:

A Black-and-white photograph that captures a young Anthony Hopkins with an intense yet contemplative expression. His gaze is steady and direct, conveying both confidence and quiet introspection. The lighting accentuates the texture of his hair and the subtle shadowing around his face, creating a timeless, cinematic quality.

Anthony Hopkins strides purposefully as his expression is caught between thought and intensity. Dressed in a casual navy-and-white striped shirt, he exudes effortless charm with a touch of mystery. The fading daylight and onlookers around him lend the scene a cinematic sense of quiet anticipation.

Gazing into the distance, Anthony Hopkins's expression is between contemplation and quiet sorrow. The textured coat and misty backdrop evoke a mood of solitude and reflection. Every detail in the monochrome scene speaks of depth, restraint, and the weight of unspoken emotion.

Sitting poised at a press conference table in London, Anthony Hopkins's calm demeanor hints at quiet introspection. Dressed in a crisp blue shirt and tailored jacket, he radiates effortless sophistication. The soft lighting and reflective glassware lend the scene a timeless air of composure and grace.

Anthony Hopkins beams warmly in an elegant black tuxedo, his charm illuminated by soft evening light. The neatly tied bow and crisp white shirt add a touch of classic poise. Surrounded by vibrant flowers, he radiates confidence and timeless grace.

Appearing contemplative and composed, Anthony Hopkins's piercing blue eyes reflects quiet intensity. Dressed in a checkered shirt and tan jacket, he embodies understated class. The muted tones and soft lighting capture a moment of depth and quiet drama from "Hollywood Wives."

Anthony Hopkins shares an engaging moment with Jay Leno during an interview, both men animated with laughter and ease. Hopkins' colorful tie adds a playful flair to his sleek suit, reflecting his charismatic energy. Under the studio lights, their lively exchange captures the warmth and wit of late-night television at its finest.

Anthony Hopkins and Lyn Davis grace the red carpet at the Fifth Annual BAFTA Awards, radiating timeless elegance. Hopkins, in a classic black tuxedo and bow tie, stands poised under the flash of cameras. Beside him, Davis exudes quiet sophistication, her embroidered gown adding a touch of refined glamour to the evening.

Anthony Hopkins stands proudly beside Winona Ryder as she kneels, holding her Hollywood Walk of Fame plaque with radiant joy. Dressed elegantly, the pair share a moment of admiration and celebration amid the gathered crowd. The scene exudes grace, legacy, and the shared triumph of cinematic achievement.

Anthony Hopkins embraces Gary Sinise warmly as they celebrate on the iconic red carpet of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Holding his commemorative plaque, Hopkins beams with gratitude and pride. The moment captures camaraderie, respect, and the joy of a well-earned honor in Hollywood's storied tradition.

At the 81st Annual Academy Awards, Anthony Hopkins radiates timeless sophistication. Dressed in a sleek black tuxedo paired with a matching tie, his confident smile reflects both grace and gravitas. The soft glow of the event lights captures his enduring charisma amidst Hollywood's finest.

Anthony Hopkins waves warmly to the audience, his face glowing with gratitude and charm. Dressed in a stylish pinstripe suit and crisp white shoes, he exudes relaxed sophistication. The vibrant stage lights cast a celebratory glow as he bids farewell after "The Tonight Show" with Jay Leno.

Anthony Hopkins attends the Classic Brit Awards, exuding timeless elegance and quiet confidence. Clad in a crisp white shirt, black tie, and velvet-trimmed jacket, he radiates understated finesse. His composed expression reflects both his artistic depth and enduring presence in the world of performance.

Anthony Hopkins, in rugged costume and unkempt beard, playfully raises his hands and sticks out his tongue on set. Surrounded by crew members, his lighthearted energy contrasts the intense world of "Thor: Ragnarok." The candid moment captures a legendary actor enjoying the craft behind the chaos of filmmaking.

Anthony Hopkins graces the 94th Annual Academy Awards with dignified elegance. Dressed in a classic black tuxedo and tie, he embodies timeless polish. His composed smile and poised presence reflect the quiet confidence of a cinematic legend.

Commanding the scene as Emperor Vespasian while draped in regal white robes adorned with golden embroidery, Anthony Hopkins captures the grandeur and gravitas of an emperor immortalized in history. His raised arm and resolute gaze embody the power and authority of Rome's might.

Anthony Hopkins is seen filming at Sandown Park Racecourse, wrapped in a rich camel overcoat that exudes quiet elegance. His poised expression and thoughtful gaze capture the essence of a man deep in character. Against the crisp green backdrop, he stands as a figure of grace and gravitas amid the English chill.