Being nervous actually kept me very tense.

I think as a mature artist, you're probably always trying to undo the compromises of one's self [in general]. It's not necessarily to do with youth.

But I don't have a very good track record with royalty. My dress fell off in front of Prince Charles at the Prince's Trust, so I'm just living up to my reputation.

I didn't dare let my mind wander off.

I don't think it's a very nice idea [making biopic] at all. I don't think my life is that interesting.

That doesn't matter. If it speaks to them and they get something positive from it, it's great.

If ever there's been somebody to hold as an icon of sheer determination and willpower, it's that guy [Stephen Hawking ], let alone any of the things he's done scientifically. I'm sure that's his driving force, but he's a miracle and an aspiration.