Sir Michael Caine confirms retirement from acting

Sir Michael Caine has confirmed he has retired from acting, following the release of his latest film.

The 90-year-old screen legend stars in The Great Escaper opposite Glenda Jackson, who completed the film months before her death in June.

Sir Michael has previously indicated his intention to retire but has often been tempted back.

He figures, I've had a picture where I've played the lead and had incredible reviews... What am I going to do that will beat this?"

The Great Escaper sees Sir Michael portray Bernie Jordan, a real-life World War Two veteran who made headlines in 2014 when he escaped from his care home to attend D-Day anniversary celebrations in France.

But Sir Michael said the likelihood of fewer parts being offered to him in old age has ultimately prompted his decision to retire.

"The only parts I'm liable to get now are 90-year-old men. Or maybe 85," he joked to presenter Martha Kearney.

"They're not going to be the lead. You don't have leading men at 90, you're going to have young handsome boys and girls. So I thought, I might as well leave with all this."

The star acknowledged he turned down his last film three times before finally saying yes, because he already considered himself retired.

[Source: BBC]