Films were never in my budget. Didn't occur to me till much later. I hoped for a long, good life, which I've had and I'm having as an actor. I didn't expect the rest.

If I'm not at my study by 10:00, 10:30, forget it, I can't write a word.

I'm the most gregarious of men and love good company, but never less alone when alone.

I'm a working stiff, baby, just like everybody else.

I wouldn't mind being a lord.

I tell my children to avoid theatre and go into cinema and TV.

I loved doing My Favorite Year, which was great fun, and The Ruling Class, which I made with all my chums.

It's my job, it's what I do, it's what I'm on earth to do and it's who I am.

I have no memories I'm prepared to share with you.

My own favorite is something called Rogue Male.

I love working with young people, which is to me a big kick.

It's very inconvenient because every time I finish, let's say, a chapter of a book, I think I'm going to ring Richard and then realize: Oh, Christ, I've buried him. I buried him last year.

My dear sir, it haunted me for the rest of my life.

The good parts are the people who don't make do. They're the interesting people. Lear doesn't make do.

There is a legend. And to protest is daft.