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Oscar-winning actor Anthony Hopkins delivered a heartfelt message to supporters regarding his wellbeing, revealing he had found himself in "big, big trouble". The Silence of the Lambs legend has candidly discussed the life-changing moment he quit drinking five decades ago, commemorating the milestone by celebrating his "unexpectedly long life". The acclaimed performer, renowned for his roles in Hitchcock and The Remains of the Day, acknowledged he was in "big, big trouble" after battling memory problems and admitting to getting behind the wheel whilst under the influence. A documentary chronicling the star's journey, told through his own voice, will broadcast on BBC 2 at 7.30pm tonight. "Forty-nine years ago today, I stopped," Anthony said in an Instagram video, reports the Express . "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. I phoned up a group of people like me - alcoholic. And that was it. Sober. Anyway, I've had more fun these 49 years than ever." Current NHS guidelines suggest limiting intake to no more than 14 alcoholic units distributed across three or more days weekly - approximately six medium (175ml) glasses of wine or six pints of 4% lager. While chronic alcohol misuse can trigger heart disease, strokes and various cancers, countless immediate dangerous consequences also exist. Memory issues are widespread, along with sickness, fits, blackouts and potentially aggressive or reckless conduct. The Welsh legend added: "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. "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. 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." Looking back on reaching 87 he said: "I'm celebrating my long life - unexpectedly long life. So if you have a problem, you know where to go. Phone any intergroup, 12-step programme, whatever you could do. Because it is a killer." Should you be questioning whether you might be battling with alcohol misuse, the NHS recommends assessing four crucial factors. The health service also advises: "If you're concerned about your drinking or someone else's, a good first step is to see a GP. They'll be able to discuss the services and treatments available. "As well as the NHS, there are a number of charities and support groups across the UK that provide support and advice for people with an alcohol misuse problem."
