Sir Anthony Hopkins Wears England Shirt, Sparks Welsh Backlash
Sir Anthony Hopkins, the acclaimed Oscar-winning actor from Port Talbot, Wales, shared a photo on Instagram featuring himself in an England football jersey, while his wife, Stella Arroyave, donned a Mexico shirt, just before the World Cup clash between England and Mexico. His caption stated, "We're all winners... #WorldCup2026." The post sparked numerous comments, particularly from Welsh fans questioning his choice to wear the England shirt, with remarks like "Babes you're Welsh" and "Take that shirt off Sir... you're Welsh!" Some defended him, arguing he was simply celebrating the event. At 88, Hopkins has seldom revealed his football allegiance but often takes pride in his Welsh heritage. England triumphed 3-2, advancing to the World Cup quarter-finals. Known for his role as Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs (1991), he won his first Oscar for Best Actor and a second for The Father (2021).
Key facts
- Sir Anthony Hopkins posted a photo wearing an England football shirt on Instagram.
- The caption read: 'We're all winners... #WorldCup2026.'
- His wife Stella Arroyave wore a Mexico shirt.
- The post attracted hundreds of comments, many from Welsh supporters questioning his choice.
- One commenter wrote: 'Babes you're Welsh.'
- Another said: 'Take that shirt off Sir... you're Welsh!'
- England beat Mexico 3-2 to reach the World Cup quarter-finals.
- Hopkins was born in Port Talbot, Wales, and has often spoken proudly of his Welsh roots.
Entities
Artists
- Sir Anthony Hopkins
- Stella Arroyave
Locations
- Port Talbot
- Wales
- England
- Mexico