Ep 7. Sir Anthony Hopkins

Sir Anthony Hopkins is featured in season 4, episode 7 of Inside the Actors Studio, giving audiences an intimate look into his life, craft, and experiences as an actor. In this episode, host James Lipton delves deep into Hopkins' career, exploring his beginnings in Wales, his early struggles and breakthroughs as an actor, as well as his roles in some of the most iconic films in history, including The Elephant Man, Remains of the Day, and of course, The Silence of the Lambs for which he won an Academy Award for Best Actor.

Throughout the episode, Lipton engages in a candid conversation with Hopkins about his approach to acting, asking questions that are intriguing and revealing, and giving us an insider's perspective on the creative journey of one of the greatest actors of our time. Hopkins talks about his unique style of preparation, his struggles with his personal demons, his portrayal of some of his most difficult characters, as well as his thoughts on art, creativity, and the craft of acting.

As the conversation deepens, Hopkins reveals some of the most intimate moments of his life, including his childhood in Wales, his relationship with his parents, and his experiences with alcoholism. He speaks candidly about his decision to become an actor and the struggles he faced early on, including his challenges with dyslexia, his early failures, and his persistence to overcome them.

Throughout the episode, Hopkins' wit, humor, and intelligence shine through, making it clear why he is considered one of the most talented and respected actors of his generation. His insights into the art of acting are astute and nuanced, and his perspective on life, love, and loss is at times profound and moving.

As the episode draws to a close, Lipton asks Hopkins the signature question of the show, "what is your favorite word?" to which Hopkins responds with a word that is both surprising and poignant. It's a fitting end to an engaging conversation, one that offers an intimate and revealing look into the life of one of the most talented actors of our time.

Overall, season 4, episode 7 of Inside the Actors Studio featuring Sir Anthony Hopkins is a must-watch for anyone interested in the craft of acting, the journey of an artist, or the creative process in general. It's a rare opportunity to hear from a master of his craft, and to gain insights that can only be gained from a lifetime of experience.