Ep 12. Anthony Hopkins - 2nd Visit

Anthony Hopkins has long been known as one of the greatest actors of our time, with countless iconic performances under his belt throughout his illustrious career. In this second visit to Inside the Actors Studio, Hopkins sits down for a one-on-one conversation with host James Lipton, delving into his approach to acting, his thoughts on the industry, and reflections on his life.

Lipton wastes no time in diving deep into Hopkins' craft, asking him about his process for approaching a new character. Hopkins reveals that he often starts by trying to find a physicality or voice for a character, using that as a jumping-off point to build a more complete character. He also discusses how he tries to tap into his own emotional experiences to bring authenticity to his performances, likening it to "emotional memory" rather than traditional method acting.

As the conversation progresses, Hopkins shares insights into some of his most iconic roles. He discusses his preparation for playing Dr. Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs, including spending time with a real-life serial killer to inform his portrayal. He also talks about the challenges of playing Richard Nixon in Nixon, a role that required him to wear prosthetics and undergo extensive vocal training.

Throughout the interview, Hopkins reflects on his career and the industry as a whole. He speaks candidly about the ups and downs of Hollywood and his own struggles with addiction, revealing that he has been sober for over 30 years. He also discusses the importance of taking risks as an actor and constantly challenging oneself, citing his recent turn as King Lear in a stage production as an example.

As the episode comes to a close, Lipton asks Hopkins to reflect on his legacy as an actor. Hopkins humbly downplays his own impact, but acknowledges the incredible opportunities he has had and the joy he has found in his work. It's a poignant moment that beautifully captures the essence of this legendary performer.

Overall, this episode of Inside the Actors Studio offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of the greatest actors of all time. Hopkins' insights into his craft and his reflections on his career make for an engaging and insightful conversation that is sure to delight fans of the show and of Hopkins himself.