Sir Philip Anthony Hopkins, a two-time Academy Award-winning Welsh actor, is widely recognized for his impactful career in film and theater. In his memoir We Did Ok, Kid, published on November 4, 2025, Hopkins candidly discusses his early life, career achievements, personal struggles, and relationships.
Hopkins married Petronella Barker in September 1967. He recounted their marriage as
“the worst two years of my life.”He attributed the failure largely to their “opposing personalities” and his issues with alcoholism. By the time Hopkins accepted that they were incompatible, Barker was already pregnant with their first child.
Petronella Barker is a British actress, daughter of actress Pearl Hackney and comedian Eric Barker. She appeared in various films and TV shows, including Othello, A Flea in Her Ear, The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes, and Miss Nightingale. Barker married Hopkins at the age of 24, but their marriage ended in separation by 1972.
Author's summary: Anthony Hopkins reflects on his complex early marriage and personal challenges while celebrating a distinguished acting career in his revealing memoir.