The whole point of art, aside from the aesthetic pleasure it yields, is that it provides a bridge to the past; that seductive land where we all find certainty and consolation. Nothing quite spans this gulf with such immediacy as the art of popular song.

I think a lot of people think that we [comedians] are nerveless people in the theatre, that we don't feel that kind of terror which traditionally anyone who has to do any public speaking feels. It's worse for actors, because our livelihood depends on it.

Sport is a loathsome and dangerous pursuit.

I like people who are slightly unhygienic. A little grubbiness isn't so bad. BO chic it should be called.

Friendship is tested in the thick years of success rather than in the thin years of struggle.

I've decided the secret of parenting is benevolent neglect.I put my family last. Because if you don't, if you put them first, they never thank you. You'll never get a word of thanks from them.

To live in Australia permanently is rather like going to a party and dancing all night with one's mother.