Anthony Hopkins' Secret Part in Stanley Kubrick’s 'Spartacus': Hidden Voice Role Revealed

Anthony Hopkins is a commanding actor whose presence invariably commands attention, yet few realise he once had a hidden role in Stanley Kubrick’s grand 1960 historical epic, Spartacus.

Although Hopkins, who was in his early twenties during filming, was not present on set, he was later inserted into the film during its 1991 restoration. This process saw a scene reinstated that had been cut from the original release due to concerns over modesty. The scene depicted General Crassus (Laurence Olivier) attempting to seduce his slave Antoninus (Tony Curtis) in a bathhouse.

However, the audio for this scene was missing. Tony Curtis was able to re-record his own lines for Antoninus, but Olivier had passed away two years earlier, leaving Crassus without a voice. It was Joan Plowright, Olivier’s widow, who suggested Anthony Hopkins as a suitable voice actor. She knew of his talent for mimicry and that he had been a protégé of Olivier in his youth.

Hopkins stepped in to re-dub Olivier’s dialogue, and while viewers with full knowledge of this fact might notice his distinctive voice if they watch the scene closely, it remains an impressive impersonation of the legendary actor.

This little-known fact adds an intriguing layer to Hopkins’ illustrious career and highlights how even minor roles can carry hidden stories within classic films.