Billy Nighy - The Unauthorised Biography

Book excerpt: Born into a working-class family in Caterham, Surrey, in 1949, Bill attended the Guildford School of Dance and Drama before embarking on a two-year theatre stint in Liverpool. His London stage debut came in 1977 at the National Theatre, and many more theatre, radio and television appearances followed, including radio performances of Yes Minister for the BBC. He has said that the job that launched his career was 1991 BBC series The Men's Room. In 1998, he first came to international prominence with his role as a washed-up rock star in Hollywood film Still Crazy.But it was the Richard Curtis smash hit Love Actually, in 2004, that really propelled Bill into the limelight - many though that his performance as shameless old rocker Billy Mack was one of the best of the whole film, and it earned him a BAFTA for Best Supporting Actor. Since then, Bill has earned yet more plaudits, starring in the acclaimed TV drama State of Play and Gideon's Daughter, and appearing once again on the silver screen in the Pirates of the Caribbean trilogy and hit comedy Rock the Boat.His wit, charm and on-screen presence have endeared him to legions of fans, and his film and TV work shows that he is an accomplished performer who can bring a touch of magic to any role. This is the fascinating story of one of the most intriguing and entertaining characters in show-business.