Philip Anthony Hopkins was born in Margam, Port Talbot, Wales on December 31, 1937. Anthony Hopkins is widely recognised as one of the best actors living, having epitomised evil in his horrific depiction of a cannibalistic killer in 'The Silence of the Lambs.' This well-known character actor began his career as a theatrical performer. Laurence Olivier, the legendary British actor, requested him to be his understudy at The Royal National Theatre after being impressed by the young man's abilities and devotion. The youthful Anthony excelled under the elder actor's tutelage and was well on his way to becoming a successful theatre performer.