The only way to be an actor is to find ways to work as an actor, even if that means doing a one-man show by a river.

I started working as an actor, semi-professionally, when I was 16, and got my first professional gig at 19. I guess I've kind of worked pretty consistently since then.

Steve MCQueen created an entire family to tell one man's tale and I am delighted that so many of this family have also been recognised today. I am hugely grateful to the Academy for this great honour, and, of course, to Solomon Northup for sharing his story through his breathtaking book.

The only way to be an actor is to find ways to work as an actor, even if that means doing a one-man show by a river.

All roads lead home in the end. You've got to keep that in mind always - in your work and in your life.

I enjoy doing everything, comedy and drama. I just look for the characters really and what they offer.

I think Africa will have a crisper impact on Europe, as it has traditionally, and then that will filter into the American cultural psyche, in the way that India has.