Ken Stott

Nobody's going to say hello to me in the street, really, because there'll be someone a bit more famous coming along the street in a minute. That typifies London, really.

The Scottish are not shy when it comes to expressing themselves.

For me, acting is a series of impressions rather than trying to find one line through to the end, which risks becoming more of a presentation.

Producers and directors think they have the power, but what they think of as the weakest link, the actor, is all-powerful.

In every area, we seem to have thrown everything away and embraced reality television. It's nauseating, programme after programme.

I used to be under the impression that if a role wasn't difficult, then there was nothing happening. Then a director said to me: 'Ken, you've got to realise, acting can be fun, too.'

There are many actors who'll make their living in other areas, and they'll say they don't like theatre. What they're saying is that they're afraid of theatre because they know it will separate those who can from those who can't.

I am very aware of how warmly Scotland is regarded around the world, and a vote for self-determination would raise our international profile even further, with lots of benefits for Scottish arts and culture.

I am wholeheartedly in favour of an independent Scotland.

Inspector Rebus is a great character, so when the opportunity came up to revive the role for 'BBC Children in Need,' and really have a bit of fun with it, I was happy to take part.

I like to play these unconventional characters, yes. They're close to the way I feel as a human being.

No acting, no production, could take the place of that moment when you come out in the dark on to the stage and the drummer plays four beats on the hi-hat and then lights and music. It just takes your breath away. No words can do what music can.