The actor on mucking out pigs as a teenager, an apology to his first wife and what makes him cry all the time
Born in London, Nigel Havers, 74, was Bafta-nominated for his 1981 role in Chariots of Fire. His other films include A Passage to India and Empire of the Sun. On television he has appeared in Don’t Wait Up, The Charmer, Coronation Street, The Gentlemen and, most recently, Golden Boys. He has starred in West End plays and panto, and is touring his show, Talking B*ll*cks. He is married, has a daughter and lives in London.
What is your greatest fear?
Every actor has the same fear – ie, you’re never going to work again.
What is your earliest memory?
Being in a pram in London and there being a road accident ahead and saying to my mother, “Go quickly, I want to see what’s happened.”
Which living person do you most admire, and why?
The king – because he’s been through quite a bit and I think he’s come out the other side brilliantly.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
I’m over-tidy.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
When they don’t tell the truth.
What was your most embarrassing moment?
I was about six years old in a market square in Italy and my dad said, “Oh, those shorts would look perfect on you.” So he whipped my trousers off and I hadn’t got any knickers on.
What is your most treasured possession?
My new lawnmower.
Describe yourself in three words
I am here.
What scares you about getting older?
Everything.
Who is your celebrity crush?
Julia Roberts.
Would you choose fame or anonymity?
A hard question for an actor to answer.
What was the last lie that you told?
“We must have lunch sometime.” Who was it? I’m not telling you.
To whom would you most like to say sorry, and why?My first wife, because I left her.
