My first job was a Greek tragedy, and ever since, one job just seemed to roll onto the next. I've been terribly lucky.

I like characters who have faults. I'm drawn to darker people.

I think it's always easier to play parts that you have something concrete that you can relate to.

I think Brits probably feel that Americans are more like us than vice-versa, if that makes sense. Because we get everything American over here in Britain, but yet there are things which are staunchly English that you guys don't have.

I went to drama school for three years, and the whole thing there is that hopefully you are introduced to a man called William Shakespeare who is the greatest of all time of all storytelling.

Mum wasn't at all religious, but she thought that going to the theatre was as important a ceremonial, communal experience that a person could have.

I read a lot of heavy literature when I'm on set, so on holiday I want to indulge in something light-hearted.