I always sang, I always acted, I always played.

Must we be put to shame by much smaller and poorer countries, by Ireland, France, Austria or Sweden, who have understood that a nation's support of its arts is a matter of both national pride and cultural survival?

Although I am deeply grateful to a great many people, I forgo the temptation of naming them for fear that I might slight any by omission.

I have always striven to raise the voice of hope for a world where hate gives way to respect and oppression to liberation.

Despite a large body of work in films, TV, theatre and concerts, I am viewed by many as a Jewish artist. I do not resent the label, except for the fact that I disapprove of labels in general.

I don't speak out because I am an actor nor will I keep silent because I am an actor. I respect my profession, but it endows me with no special privileges; but it also does not limit me or muzzle me. I am a person and a citizen with the attendant responsibilities of voice and vote.

When something is moving you get that intake of breath and that stillness from the audience.