Review by Caroline Russo
Sir Anthony Hopkins’s memoir We Did Ok, Kid is now out in all leading bookstores, on Amazon, and as an audiobook — and the listening experience is truly something special.
The audiobook is narrated by Kenneth Branagh, whose masterful delivery brings Hopkins’s life, reflections, and emotional journey vividly to life. Branagh captures the essence of Hopkins with remarkable sensitivity, guiding listeners through the actor’s early years, his rise to acclaim, and his deeply personal battles with depression and addiction. At the end of the audiobook, Hopkins himself reads a selection of his own poems, creating a moving and intimate finale that blends two extraordinary talents.
The collaboration is also a celebration of their long-standing friendship, known to many from their work together on Thor. Branagh’s narration is genuinely engaging — I found myself completely drawn in by the warmth, depth, and clarity of his voice. His interpretation adds a richness that elevates the memoir into something even more immersive.
What stands out most is the honesty Hopkins brings to every chapter. He speaks candidly about his struggles with alcohol, the complexities of his relationships, and the lasting impact of his upbringing. His reflections on the era he was born into also shed light on how differently mental health and addiction were understood at the time.
This is not just a memoir for actors — though every actor should read it — but for anyone who has faced addiction, self-doubt, or the challenge of reinventing themselves. Hopkins’s resilience, hard-earned wisdom, and eventual transformation offer invaluable insight and inspiration.
Overall, We Did Ok, Kid is a compelling, heartfelt, and often profound journey through the life of one of the greatest actors of our time. Hopkins’s legacy — from his unforgettable roles to his unmistakable voice — shines through every page and every minute. He has overcome much, and in doing so, has left behind a story filled with gold-dust wisdom.
A powerful read — and an even more powerful listen.
— Caroline Russo
