London, Jan 6 (ANI): James McAvoy is convinced that he is offered roles in period films because he is “pale and thin”.

“People sometimes ask me why I get cast in so many period roles - The Last King Of Scotland, Atonement and my latest film, The Last Station, which takes place in 19th-century Russia, have all taken place at various times in the past,” the Daily Express quoted him as saying.

“It may sound strange, but I think it’s because I’m pale and thin.”

He added: “If you look at most of the big Hollywood actors, it’s getting harder and harder to find someone who has pale skin: they are tanned, they have perfect teeth and gorgeous buff bodies. Me, I look like a malnourished urchin, and there aren’t too many of us around.

“I’m healthy, but I’ve never been a big guy, which is unusual for a Scottish actor, because, if you look at Sean Connery, Gerard Butler or Ewan McGregor, you’ll see that they’re big men, and I’m just a little, skinny, weak guy, and always have been.”

McAvoy, 30, bagged his first major role in 2005’s The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, and rocketed to fame with the critically acclaimed The Last King of Scotland in 2006 and Atonement in 2007. (ANI)