His desire to become an actor was probably triggered by timidity, he says.

WSJ: Silence Is Golden in 'The Artist'

Truth be told, the best way to sell a pitch (or to become an actor, director, or producer) is to be the related to somebody famous.

FORBES: In What Ways Is A Hollywood Film Pitch Similar To A Venture Capital Pitch For A Startup?

Actor Liam Neeson has told the Andrew Marr Show that, as a child, he was inspired to become an actor by watching Ian Paisley make political and religious speeches.

BBC: Ian Paisley was 'electrifying' says Liam Neeson

Gilmore left school at 14 to become an actor and after leaving National Service in the early 50s, he joined up with a singing group and starred in some musicals with little success.

BBC: Onedin Line actor Peter Gilmore dies aged 81

Mine was to become an actor.

WSJ: Ryan Seacrest's Empire: Can an Idol Be a Mogul?

Marley, who has followed his father's footsteps to become a musician and an actor, has called the project One Love, after one of the late Bob Marley's best known songs.

BBC: Marley son's Bard remake

Hull born actor Maureen Lipman has become an ambassador for Dove House Hospice.

BBC: Maureen Lipman is new ambassador for Dove House Hospice

If he wins this time, the 82-year-old will become the oldest ever actor to receive an Oscar, surpassing Jessica Tandy who was 80 when she was named best actress for Driving Miss Daisy.

BBC: Oscars: Hugo has 11 nominations, The Artist has 10