The actor on the disappointment of puberty, tickling and why a bidet would change his life

Born in Dublin, Brendan Gleeson, 61, worked as a teacher and was a part-time stage actor until, at 34, he appeared in Mel Gibson’s Braveheart. His subsequent work includes Gangs Of New York, three Harry Potter films, In Bruges, Calvary and Suffragette; his latest film, Assassin’s Creed, is released tomorrow. He lives in Ireland and is married with four sons.

When were you happiest?
It’s ongoing.

What is your greatest fear?
War.

Which living person do you most admire?
My wife.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Self-hatred.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Sleeveenism: a self-serving sliminess.

What was your most embarrassing moment?
Advising the girlfriend of a former friend not to make up with him because he was a shit. They are still together. [ . . .  ]

Read Full Interview: Brendan Gleeson: ‘My guiltiest pleasure? Fridge-foraging before bed’ | Life and style | The Guardian