In America they like my spicy TV alter ego, probably because there were a lot of Italians and Hispanics in the country, but the real L.A. life is a hard-working one.

It's horrible how money and fame can make you acceptable while, if you're not famous or rich, you're not acceptable.

I just like to take my time, have a cup of tea and read the paper. I don't like starting the day in a panic.

I'm a sucker for turquoise sea, white beaches and palm trees. I've been to the tropics every year since I could afford it. It's the perfect place to unwind. I can chill out, read, do a bit of yoga.

In America they like my spicy TV alter ego, probably because there were a lot of Italians and Hispanics in the country, but the real L.A. life is a hard-working one.

I love reading. I'm very much into history, novels, biographies and I have a wide range of thrillers.

I love contemporary art, although I wouldn't want a pickled shark in my house.