Anthony Hopkins

“The knighthood was a tremendous honour, I don't dismiss it. But I feel embarrassed by the flowery, theatrical stuff that goes with being an actor.”

“I know that some actors and directors like to have intensity on set. I don't, particularly. Certainly, if they want that, that's fine, but I can't work like that.”

“I never make conscious decisions.”

“This industry has been really good to me. It's been a great life. I'm not through yet. I'm ready when you are, Mr. DeMille.”

“I worked with Lawrence Olivier some years ago. He was a great mentor.”

“Beware the tyranny of the weak. They just suck you dry.”

“I don't like freeloaders; I don't like people who are negative.”

“I have dual citizenship, it just so happens I live in America.”

“Our existence is beyond our explanation, whether we believe in God or we have religion or we're atheist. Our existence is beyond our understanding. No one has an answer.”

“It was a challenge, to work with Oliver Stone.”

“People ask, 'Should I call you Sir Hopkins?' But I say, 'No. Call me Tony,' because it's too much of a lift-up.”

“I think the first British actor who really worked well in cinema was Albert Finney. He was a back-street Marlon Brando. He brought a great wittiness and power to the screen. The best actor we've had.”

“I think the healthy way to live is to make friends with the beast inside oneself, and that means not the beast but the shadow. The dark side of one's nature. Have fun with it and you know, is to accept everything about ourselves.”

“My philosophy is: It's none of my business what people say of me and think of me.”

“I am not very good with relationships. With anyone. I can't be locked up with anyone for too long.”

“I'm fascinated by the fact that we can't grasp anything about time.”

“If you do things, whether it's acting or music or painting, do it without fear - that's my philosophy. Because nobody can arrest you and put you in jail if you paint badly, so there's nothing to lose.”

“I'm not a health freak. I just work out every day.”

“I'm the slowest driver in the world.”

“I don't believe in nepotism. I don't much like the idea of parents who interfere.”