Quotes ...an archive of quotes about ewan mcgregor

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Below are quotes about Ewan McGregor from over 200 people including actors, directors, producers, writers, miscellaneous crew members, friends, and family. Some of these people are famous (like Nicole Kidman, Cameron Diaz, Sean Connery and Jude Law), others are not (like his high school friend Lyn Dunnachie and Sally Jay, the makeup artist on his first professional acting job). The quotes are all listed alphabetically by last name. If you are looking for someone in particular, you can locate them more easily using the alpha index on your left. I have included in brackets a very brief description of each person. If they have worked with Ewan, I have included the name of the film and when appropriate the name of the character they played. If you are not familiar with Ewan's films and other projects, you may want to visit the films section of this site or pop on over to The Internet Movie Database. A......... Bradley Adams (producer, chairman Natural Nylon) I think that Ewan is as close as you can be to directing and I think it is what he should do. If he finds a script that he loves and is passionate about then I think he would be the most fantastic director. I think it is the natural next step, no question. Film Review Special, 2000 Fergus Adams (classmate Morrison’s Academy) He was a great guy, and always a good laugh, but he was never going to match up to his older brother who was superb academically and even better at sport. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) Ben Affleck (actor) (about his sex scene in Reindeer Games being cut) My sex scene with Charlize Theron was too steamy. Sex is somehow seen as more scandalous than violence. Frankly, I think the opposite is true. Even you Brits are constantly throwing your breasts around the television. So yes, there was a much longer, racier, more erotic version of the scene. And it wasn't like we were even really having sex. I mean, I had a sock on! Brits don't even wear socks. Ewan McGregor is allergic to the socks. He won't do a movie without showing his penis. That's the sign of a real man. If you're not afraid to let it swing in the wind, there's nothing you're afraid of. This is London, June 21 2000 Doug Allan (cameraman The Bear Facts aka The Polar Bears of Churchill) It’s hard to realize that Ewan’s in the same league as Tom Cruise, he is such a straightforward guy. We got on well right from the start. He was very enthusiastic and was game for anything. Ewan is very like David Attenborough in that what you see is what you get. Scotland on Sunday, July 2001 Ewan was sensible and knew when to take and ask for advice. He was interested in the creatures and the work and wasn't at all high and mighty. He was happy to muck in. Daily Record, August 18 2001 Ewan is a very straight-forward, nice guy. He likes a laugh, likes a drink occasionally, and pitched in with the rest of us. Really he was winging it pretty much because there was no script. Very often in these circumstances the 'star' won't open themselves up. They fear that it will do something to their image, but Ewan didn't have that problem. He was really interested and not at all a prima donna. Edinburgh Evening News, September 14 2001 (about making the polar bear documentary with Ewan) He’s a little boy lost in some ways. Although he has travelled a lot and done a lot of filmmaking, he is a bit naive. For instance, he seemed to come over as not having a clue about how you go and buy yourself a flight and get yourself a deal on excess baggage. I think that’s because everything has been done for him. Stars have this kind of big set-up that cushions them from life in a way. The Scotsman, July 13 2003 (thank you Claude and Gail) Army Archerd (columnist Variety) (when asked who has star quality among the younger actors) Tom Cruise, if you still call him young. Josh Hartnett of Black Hawk Down. Renee Zellweger and Reese Witherspoon. Halle Berry has something special. Jennifer Aniston could develop into something. Hayden Christensen, Ewan McGregor. USA Today, April 25 2002 (thanks Gail) Craig Armstrong (composer Moulin Rouge) Actually, both he and Nicole are very good singers. It's for the critics to decide, I suppose, but they have a lot of character in their voices. I was really surprised by how good they sounded, which was lucky because I had a kind of quality control job when it came to the singing. At times, what I wrote was affected by how they sang. Ewan has a deep, strong voice, so I could score the orchestra higher for him. Nicole's is fragile and pure, so it was the other way round. A good composer has to react to what he's working with. The Sunday Times, May 6 2001 Patricia Arquette (actor Nightwatch - Katherine) (how she and her former husband, Nicholas Cage, handled love scenes with others) I was thinking like what can we do so that you feel like your there and I feel like I’m there. So we made this agreement that we would eat raw garlic during love scenes in our movies. So I ate all these cloves of raw garlic… Ewan’s allergic to raw garlic apparently, so ...(laughs). The Tonight Show, April 9 1998 Jules Asner (reporter, interviewer) (when asked to name her favorite interview) Ewan McGregor. I knew he had been naked in a few movies so I said "Has that really been hard?" And he said "Well, actually it has been hard a few times!" I just blushed! NW Magazine, January 2003 (thanks Darth Mystique) B......... Lynn Bains (co-director of drama Kirkcaldy College of Technology) (about Ewan’s participation in a one-year drama course at age 17) From the minute he walked in the door he was enthusiastic, willing to do anything you threw at him. He was talented and very hard working. Scottish Daily Mail, January 14 1997 Christian Bale (actor Velvet Goldmine – Arthur ) (on filming a sex scene with Ewan and not hearing the director say cut) I couldn't hear. We were going at it for ages. Then Ewan turned his head and said, 'Hey, the camera's not fucking on us!' (…) He was really tender, very caring. He hugged me afterward. But he never writes. He never calls. Goddamn him! Cosmopolitan, February 2001 (thanks Jessica) John Battsek (producer Serpent’s Kiss) He hasn't let success get the better of him. He's very well earthed. Guardian, June 15 1997 Jason Bell (photographer) (on photographing Ewan) Ah, bless him. He's great. We were in a hotel in London. We looked around the suite and it was all swirly carpets and rouge curtains. I said, 'This doesn't seem very you,' and he agreed: 'No, I hate it.' So I found a really rough old fire escape and he got a twinkle in his eye and said, 'Excellent.' It was more down-to-earth and suited him better. I was quite nervous, before the shoot because I hadn't worked with Ewan before. He had a great outfit on and he kept rolling round on the ground. I was worried he would ruin it, but he didn't care at all. He left covered in dirt! He's so warm and gave me a huge kiss at the end of the shoot. I love it when people are willing to go along for the ride. He was totally up for it. Glamour, October 2002 (thanks Josie and Antonella) Ahmed Best (actor Star Wars: The Phantom Menace – Jar Jar ) Ewan parties hard. He parties very hard. Rolling Stone, June 1999 Brenda Blethyn (actor Little Voice – Mari ) There’s something very earthy about Ewan. His acting is so simple, with such economy, and he can create something in each of these wonderful characters that we can all relate to; there’s no ego there. He’s brilliant. He’s also a gorgeous bloke. Premiere magazine, February 1999. (Thanks Pseudgirl) Orlando Bloom (actor Black Hawk Down – Blackburn ) (about Guildhall School of Music and Drama that both he and Ewan attended) They've got a board somewhere with photos of different people. My sister, who's training there now, says I'm up there next to Ewan McGregor! Hot Ticket Magazine, December 14 2001 The first scene I shot was with Ewan. He was the big name that had come out of school (The Guildhall School). So we chatted about some of the teachers we had at college. Hot Ticket Magazine, December 14 2001 Helen Boaden (controller Radio4) (about Ewan's reading of 5 Chekov short stories on Radio4) His agent said he really wanted to do it. I thought it was Dead Ringers (a radio show that impersonates famous people for comedic effect) and gave them the cold shoulder. Then it turned out to be the real thing. The Observer, June 29 2003 Ben Bolt (director Scarlet and Black) (about Ewan’s nude scene) He was anxious for more takes when it wasn't really necessary. People online, June 14 1999 Charley Boorman (actor The Serpent's Kiss) We met [making] the film "The Serpent's Kiss" in 1997 and both had newborn children at the time. We had play dates and had a great time. We were in Ireland, and we took our families all over the place. I'm not surprised that he's having such a good time in the South (filming Big Fish). He likes to get out and experience everything with his family. USA Weekend Magazine, May 1 2003 (thank you Alyse) Danny Boyle, (director Shallow Grave, Trainspotting, A Life Less Ordinary) He's got that thing that Tom Hanks has. He's like the guy next door. He's got that ordinariness- that's his nature. He doesn't try to represent himself without spots, and I don't think he's thinking about that. It's instinct. There's something quite naughty about Ewan as well. Very naughty. Buzz Magazine, 1997 When we began with Shallow Grave, we cast this unknown young actor Ewan McGregor - I mean, who was he? Now, after Trainspotting he's become a star and something of an icon, and he was suddenly being cast in The Pillow Book and Brassed Off! and George Lucas has got him in the new Star Wars movie. I'm just so glad he's got what he deserved - he's an incredible actor, just brilliant. And he does things and makes choices other actors wouldn't dare - audiences just can't get enough of him. Celluloid, 1997 Ewan's a remarkable actor. I'm sure one of the reasons for his enormous appeal is he's not afraid to be less than perfect, to be weak, vulnerable and a loser and to triumph without the help of tired macho traditions. The Big Issue, October 1997 His appeal is not based on being perfect. He's a bit scruffy, so he can be a star and debunk it at the same time in a very British, ironic way. The Big Issue, October 1997 Ewan's a mate. He's also the best film actor in Britain at the moment. He's Daniel Day-Lewis and Gary Oldman rolled into one. Toronto Sun, October 18 1997 (on casting A Life Less Ordinary) The most successful decision we made was to cast Cameron (Diaz) and Ewan. They got along like a house on fire. Evening Standard, October 22 1997 (on directing American and British actors on A Life Less Ordinary) The Americans are very different to work with than the Brits. Ian Holm and Ewan come in and do the script. The American actors use the script as a starting point. They bring this library of information and they are haemorrhaging ideas. It is hard to deal with the two styles. Evening Standard, October 22 1997 I think part of the reason Cameron (Diaz) and Ewan hit it off so well is that they both come from close families. They're both loved, and very centred. Toronto Sun, November 1 1997 Every now and then, you come across someone who's a sort of spokesperson for a particular era, someone who sums up a particular feeling or mood. Well, Ewan is one of those people. He is such a contrast to the kind of naked ambition and hardness of the 80s. He is perfect for this time. Vanity Fair, December 1998 Ewan has phenomenal technical skill which allows him to use the camera to its full extent. He’s actually not the most gorgeous-looking person - he’s not one of the drop-dead gorgeous Brad Pitt types - but there’s something about him that’s attractive because he’s more human. He has that slight edge of boy-next-door. Neon Magazine, 1998 He's dependable and friendly. He lets the film happen around him. Guardian, August 20 1999 (about his decision to cast Leonardo DiCaprio over Ewan in The Beach) I met with Ewan and I told him we were casting Leo, and I know it's easy for actors to feel rejected, but it wasn't a rejection. And he's gone on to star in Phantom Menace and is doing the new Baz Luhrmann film, so it's not like it's damaged him in any way. I'm sure he's got over any disappointment he might've felt. Empire February 2000 (on Ewan’s reaction to finding out the lead in The Beach had been given to DiCaprio) Obviously, betrayed is a word I couldn't get you to quote me with. It's funny, it's weird with actors, because we get to make maybe one film a year, or one every two years. Whereas he goes off and makes three films a year if he wants to, or four, if he wants to be suicidal. I think in the long run it's probably a very good thing for us to work separately, because I'm sure we will work again together. The problem is, the more you work together, the more it becomes impossible to separate. Because suddenly it just seems a bit like that. I think, probably it will be a very good thing, it's probably good for him and good for us in the end. I met with him and told him before anyone knew, that we'd decided to make it an American character. And we've been through this whole thing on A Life Less Ordinary, about him playing an American, and we decided on that we didn't want him to play an American, because we didn't think he was right. iF magazine, February 25 2000 (on how replacing Ewan with DiCaprio in The Beach did not adversely affect his career) I think Ewan was very upset by what we did. He feels we betrayed him, and I think he's right. (But) you have to get in line with everyone else to speak to him now. The Independent, October 25 2002 Ewan has an intravenous line into the audience. There's an irreverent side to him that's right in keeping with what people want. He's got that twinkle in his eye, like Sean Connery. Variety, October 28 2002 Trainspotting was more difficult than Shallow Grave. It seemed farther away from what he was. But he talked about transforming himself, and he did. I was absolutely amazed. Variety, October 28 2002 Ewan held the center in Trainspotting. There were lots of fireworks going on around him -- Ewen Bremner and Robert Carlyle played big, big characters. But those fireworks are no good unless there's an emotional center. Variety, October 28 2002 Ewan is not a star by accident. Every now and then an actor comes along who captures the spirit of a generation. Ewan is that actor. When the audience looks at him, they don't just see him up there performing, they see themselves. Sky Magazine, March 2003 (thanks ParisRouge) (about replacing Ewan with DiCaprio in The Beach) We should have been up front with Ewan about that. It just goes to show you that when you're not absolutely honest with people that you pay a price for it. New York Times, June 29 2003 (thanks Ewan Rocks webmistress) Therese Bradley (actor Young Adam) (about her sex scene with Ewan) You read a lot about Ewan being a geezer, but my experience of him, particularly on the day we filmed that scene in the alley, was of an incredibly kind gentleman. He really took care of me. It was my first movie. I didn’t quite know the etiquette of what I could and couldn’t say, but he made sure the set was closed and that I was comfortable. I felt completely able to just go ahead and do it. The Sunday Times, August 3 2003 (thank you Gail) Kristy Bragg (Nicole Kidman’s body double Moulin Rouge) Ewan McGregor was very laid-back. My first day on set I was eating lunch alone in a canteen full of people when Ewan came over, sat down and introduced himself. He couldn't have been more friendly. The Mirror, October 6 2001 Ewan and Nicole made the long hours easy because they were so funny. They were very physical with each other (Ewan was always grabbing me from behind by mistake) and had a similar sense of humour. Once Ewan and Nicole appeared all serious for a scene but then Ewan pulled down his trousers and Nicole pretended to give him a blow job! The Mirror, October 6 2001 Michelle Branch (singer, musician) (on meeting and developing a crush on Ewan) He had no idea who I was. He was like, 'OK, freaky girl,' and posed for a photo with me. It's on my fridge, and I tell people that he's my boyfriend. I'm single and there's a part of me that wants to go out and have a boyfriend, but it's easier just to obsess about Ewan McGregor. www.teenmusic.com, June 1 2003 (thank you Candlefairy) I was in London during an MTV promo for my first album (The Spirit Room) and Ewan McGregor was there promoting Star Wars Episode II Attack Of The Clones. I found out and called off my interview and stood in the hall outside hoping to meet him. I basically stalked him! I have a picture of the two of us on my fridge at home, among the photos of friends and family. I keep telling everyone, 'Ewan and I look really good together, dont we?'. TV Week (Australia), September 6-12 2003 (thank you MRS EGM) Ewen Bremner (actor Trainspotting – Spud ) (when asked if he was disappointed he was not given the lead role of Renton in the film after performing it on stage) Yes. I thought fuck! Immediately I was. I read the script and it hadn't occurred to me that they wouldn't see me for the part and then suddenly I thought: oh my God, this is written for Ewan McGregor! It was in the writing. It was always written for him, from the outset. So then they said to me: we're thinking of you for the part of Spud. And I thought: I'm not going to do it (…) I was just disappointed that I wouldn't even be asked to audition for Renton, cos the stage play had been so successful. I got over it. I needed to earn some money, so I did it - and nobody could have known how big a deal it would be. This is London, April 27 2000 Jim Broadbent (actor Little Voice - Mr. Boo, Moulin Rouge – Ziegler ) I remember we were doing 'Moulin Rouge,' and I said something, chatting with Ewan McGregor, and I said, 'Yeah, but I'm a character actor,' and Ewan said, 'We're all character actors, Jim.' You know, he's absolutely right. Certainly, I think, all good actors are, really. Boston Globe, February 17 2002 Daniel Broch (managing director Everyman Cinema) We are very lucky to have some good supports, one of them being Ewan McGregor and his wife, Eve, who are very keen to develop saturday morning cinema for kids. We run that in conjunction with Eve, although Ewan turns up quite a lot as well. It is basically a saturday morning film with a workshop afterwards. The kids make stuff and it’s on the walls of the foyer now. It’s proving very popular. It’s slightly different films then is readily available for kids now. We have just done ‘Oliver’, ‘Bugsy Malone’, you know that type of genre. www.cine4.co.uk, date? Josh Brolin (actor Nightwatch – James ) He's the best. He's like a brother to me. He just had a kid, which was something we had in common. He's a phenomenal actor. I purposely didn't see Trainspotting because I didn't want to see Ewan in that when I was working with him. I finally saw it once filming was over and I was completely blown away. Genre Magazine, 1996 (thanks to MarGwan for setting me on the trail of this one) Arnold Brown (comedian) (on his small part in Young Adam) It's only a cameo - if you go to the washroom you'll miss me - but it's nice to be in the middle of something working with Peter Mullan and Ewan McGregor. It's a terrific script and I think it's going to be really high-profile film. Edinburgh Evening News, October 31 2002 David Brown (production supervisor Star Wars: The Phantom Menace) He was right for the part. I think it worked absolutely perfectly, the relationship between him and Liam Neeson as the older Jedi, the Jedi Master (…) There’s no question that Ewan is the best person out there, not just as the young Obi-Wan Kenobi. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) Martin Brown (producer Moulin Rouge) Ewan comes from a musical family, his mum was in a choir and his dad was in a band. He's a naturally gifted musician - he plays two or three different musical instruments. Sydney Morning Herald, April 19 2000 Jerry Bruckheimer (producer Black Hawk Down) He really can do just about anything. He’s smart. He becomes the character. US WEEKLY, January 21 2002 (thank you Melanie) Tim Burton (director Big Fish) (discussing life in Alabama - specifically, visits to Wal-Mart) Once you walk into that place, you lose all track of time and space. When Ewan came back after his first trip to Wal-Mart, he had this weird gleam in his eye. No matter what country you're from, it's a different country down here. Details, May 2003 (thanks Narevane) Rose Byrne (actor Star Wars: Attack of the Clones – Dorme ) He's instantly very charming. And gorgeous. Black + White, March 2001 C......... Michael Caine (actor Little Voice – Ray Say ) I think Ewan McGregor, Stephen Dorff, Joaquin Phoenix, Ryan Phillipe and Tobey Maguire are wonderful actors. There are many other fine actors in Hollywood. But . . . I've never seen a tall one. It seems to me that there's a generation of very talented small people . . . maybe they are more ambitious because they are more angry because they are short. New York Post, January 11 2002 Dick Calthurst (executive producer Trips Money Can’t Buy) (on Ewan’s participation in the documentary) When we first got in touch with Ewan's agent, we didn't really think he would take us up on it. In fact, he jumped at the chance. Mail on Sunday Magazine (date ?) Robert Carlyle (actor Trainspotting – Begbie ) (when asked how he felt about the controversy surrounding the casting of Leonardo DiCaprio over Ewan in The Beach) I still don't know the full story to be honest with you. I heard a little bit, was ready to do the film and then backed away because of that. Then I was kind of assured, it wasn't quite as simple as what I'd heard, so I went "OK." But you know, my relationship in this instance is with Danny (Boyle, the director) and the decision about whether to have Leo or Ewan is not Danny's, it's a marketing thing, a studio thing, a production thing and my relationship is with Danny, not them. Interview, January 11 2000 (on the controversy surrounding the casting of DiCaprio over Ewan in The Beach) I would have loved it if Ewan had got the part but there was nothing I could do about it. The Sun, February 12 2000 (about The Beach – Ewan was replaced with Leo DiCaprio) I did that for Danny. I hadn’t wanted to be bothered and I did not know that Ewan had been dumped at the point. I was miffed about that and would not have done it if I had known. Sunday Herald, August 13 2000 Liz Carruthers (director Perth Rep Youth Theatre) (about Ewan’s involvement with the Youth Theatre at the age of 16) We did lots of workshops that year, but to be honest, I don’t remember Ewan being particularly outstanding in any way. I think he learned a hell of a lot during that period. We would always see him chatting to actors and crews, and talking to directors as well. Every little bit of information was important to him. But I don’t believe any of us would have possibly imagined him playing Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars just a few years down the line. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) Gennaro Castaldo (head of press and public relations HMV) (commenting on Ewan’s reluctance to release an album) With an artist like Ewan the sky would be the limit. Assuming the music was accessible and that he was prepared to do the promotional work, he would be a success. Ewan is extremely bankable and he has proved he has a brilliant voice with his singing in Moulin Rouge. Maybe he could put the album out for charity - he is committed to the Childrens' Hospice in Scotland. Sunday Mail, March 10 2002 Sarah Chalke (actor) (about Ewan) I mean, a guy who is that hot and can sing and is funny and talented and can act... He gets an eleven and a half out of ten. E!'s 25 Sexiest Men in Entertainment, October 21 2002 Margaret Cho (comedienne) (when asked to name an actor whose style she admired) Ewan Mcgregor, who's a male bombshell. When I was in Toronto, my friends took me to an all-nude male strip club and I got a lap dance from this guy who looks so much like Ewan McGregor. Ewan is Gorgeous, just so nasty, and his sexuality is so fluid on-screen. Movieline, September 2002 (thanks SugarBear) Hayden Christensen (actor Star Wars: Attack of the Clones – Anakin Skywalker ) (about the atmosphere on set) Ewan was always able to lighten up a situation. Entertainment Weekly, April 5 2002 (thanks MarGwan) Ewan, I adore, we had good fun. Were we drunk? Aye. We managed to have fun, when it was necessary (…) I guess, when we first started, our relationship in the film was this apprentice-master relationship, and that kind of extended out, translated into our personal life and he was the one I'd go to for advice, if I ever had any problems with the obscurity of the way this film was being shot (…) Ewan had a firm position in his perspective on the whole thing and he managed to instill one in me and I just got along with him really well. He's a fine actor. Really, really awesome in Moulin Rouge, to play that constant sense of elation, and just being in awe of love. That's such a hard thing to play, and not look like a total dork in the process. The Sunday Herald, April 7 2002 Ewan was just a pleasure to work with. I really adore him. We were always laughing with each other. He's such a strong actor so it's inspiring to work with him. He really brings up the level of everyone else and makes it a very enjoyable experience. He's a very gifted actor and a very kind man at the same time. The Mirror, April 11 2002 (thank you MarGwan) The first time I met him he gave me a huge hug and a big kiss. He was like: "This is going to be great. I can't wait to be doing this with you for the next four months”. Very, very welcoming. Daily Mail, May 6 2002 (Thanks Stanzy) For some reason--mainly because I jump around trying to save people a lot--my pants kept splitting, right in the most embarrassing places. They just kept splitting. I was embarrassed but Ewan loved it! Every time it happened, he accused me of trying to steal the scene. Chicago Sun Times May 10 2002 I was constantly going to him for advice. He understood that I had some of the same struggles that he had gone through in Episode I. But his guidance also involved letting me figure things out on my own, because that would be the best thing for me. Mercury News, May 12 2002 (Thanks Spectacular) I adore Ewan, he was just a pleasure to work with. He's such a strong actor, it's inspiring to work with him. Both of us are theatrically trained actors who have gone on to do film work. Maybe that's one of the things George Lucas liked about me. Sunday Mail, May 12 2002 (Ewan) is a pretty incredible actor. He has a nice perspective on his work. He always kept it interesting. We were definitely partners in crime playing with our light sabres, acting like kids. It brings it out of you. Reuters, May 17 2002 (Thanks Dakota) I'm constantly playing with it and trying to find little different things to do with it. Ewan and I have made a pact to go out to Australia a couple of months before we start filming the next one and just get wicked with our light sabers, just so we can really have a go at each other -- and you know I get on really well with Ewan so I think we'll have some really good fun doing that. Yahoo Movies, May 23 2002 (when asked if it were true that Ewan had become frustrated and “unruly” filming against bluescreens) Yeah, that's kind of the impression I got, too. I can't really comment on his frustrations but I think they're the obvious ones. I don't blame him for anything he did. Ewan is a highly trained actor who comes from the theatre. For him to be challenged and to have to deal with the struggles that he does sometimes feel are unfair-like having to submit to and understand that on a film like this, our involvement as actors, even though it's extremely necessary, doesn't have the same importance here as it does on a different kind of film. Making a film like this demands a certain level of trust among everyone involved, especially actor to actor, because so much of its coming to life happens at ILM with special effects. So much is superimposed later, you're never sure what they're going to put there and you have to trust that they're not going to make you look stupid. It's a great leap of faith required. I really asked a lot of Ewan, like how I should approach certain scenes and how to react to a nonactor like a droid. He and the stunt coordinator, Nick Gillard, were kind of my soulmates on the film. We were each others' saviors. We'd just go out, escape it all and enjoy ourselves. We played a good many games of pool together. I've stayed good friends with both of them and when I go to London, I stay with Ewan and we all hang out. Movieline, June 2002 (Thanks CrazyforEw) (about his relationship with Ewan) It was sort of an apprentice/master relationship, just not to the degree it was played on film. I have an enormous amount of respect for what he does, so when I first met him I put him on a bit of pedestal. I never really wanted to emulate what he was doing, but I had a respect for him because of it. When I was still trying to find my bearings and get situated in the Star Wars family I would often go to him for advice. He made sure that the lines of communication were very open and that we were comfortable with each other right from the beginning. The first time I met him he came over and gave me a huge hug and a big kiss and was like, "This is going to be great. I can't wait to be doing this with you for the next four months.' Just very, very welcoming. I'm very envious of him. He is an amazing actor, has a wonderful family and is just in a very nice place in his life. Arena, June 2002 (thank you Karen) Kelly Clarkson (singer, American Idol winner) Frankly, I don't have time for love. The weird thing is now anyone I stand next to--presto--the press has me instantly dating him. Anyone I talk to is my boyfriend. Now, Ewan McGregor and Hugh Jackman are both my type, but they're both married and I don't want to go down that road. Chicago Sun-Times, June 18 2003 (thank you Mary) George Clooney (actor) (about his nude scene in the film Solaris) I don't know what all the excitement is about. I just showed my butt. It's not like I did the full monty, like Ewan McGregor, and showed everything I'm packing. Daily Record, December 19 2002 Martin Compston (actor) (on meeting Ewan at the Scottish People's Film Awards where they both received prizes) Top man - Legend. Moulin Rouge, Nicole Kidman, Trainspotting,...the man's an absolute legend. He told me a bit of advice - don't sleep with the director. Scotland Today, September 23 2002 (thanks Josie at Mad About Ewan) Ewan is great, he's a cool guy. To achieve that kind of success would be amazing to me. He's a Trainspotting legend and even winched Nicole Kidman. How much better does it get? Following in his footsteps would be no bad thing. The Herald, November 15 2002 I love the way he's always loyal to British films. The only advice he gave me was don't sleep with the director. As it was Ken Loach, it wasn't in my plans anyway. Sunday Mail, May 11 2003 Sean Connery (actor) There's absolutely nothing to stop Ewan doing as well, if not better, than myself, because he has a very international quality. I met Ewan for the first time at a big Scottish party in Paris for the World Cup - which was a disaster for Scotland, but that will all change next year. He's very bright he's got a good fan base; he has a lot of ingredients in his favour. He also has great enthusiasm and is a bit of a risk-taker. I even enjoyed A Life Less Ordinary. I'd certainly love to do something with him. Total Film, 1999 Susannah Constantine (stylist, co-host BBC's What Not to Wear) (on Ewan's fashion sense) I saw him in a shop in London and he looked just fantastic. He was wearing a biker jacket, a white T- shirt and a very well-cut pair of jeans. He looked understated and doesn't try to stand out with the way he dresses, but my God, he is gorgeous. The Daily Record, September 26 2002 (thanks xcbug) Charlie Croughwell (stunt coordinator Big Fish) (about a scene where Ewan rescues a dog from a burning house) Ewan is doing most of his own stunts. He's great with the dog, and it likes him. Montgomery Advertiser, January 18 2003 Tom Cruise (actor) (on Ewan visiting the set of Mission Impossible II while filming Moulin Rouge) Ewan McGregor came by when Dougray (Scott) and I were shooting our big fight scene. The wind is blowing, there's sand and were sweating and bleeding. And Ewan came by, because he's known Dougray for a long time. We said, "What are you doing today?" And after watching this fight for a while, he said, "Oh, I've got dance rehearsal." And we just started laughing at him. Entertainment Tonight Online, May 30 2000 (Thanks Joy and Alba for tracking down the source of this quote!) D......... Anthony Daniels (actor Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, Attack of the Clones – C3PO ) Ewan McGregor? He’s a regular, down to earth guy. I see him frequently in the same Restaurant. MovieHole, date? This new generation of guys, your Ewans and Sams are great, and I adore Mark Hamill and Harrison Ford to bits. So that should tell you how much I think of this modern lot. Empire Magazine, May 2002 But it is strange to meet people playing roles that have been touched by other people, to meet Ewan McGregor as Alec Guinness. He's just terrific. Do you see any of Guinness in Ewan McGregor? I think he's his own person. I think in this one it became clear to me that Ewan has decided to make the part his own. He gets to do fun things as well. What a nice guy. Star Wars Insider, #56 Kristin Davis (actor) (discussing the ideal guest stars for her television series Sex and the City) We've been after Benjamin Bratt for a while because he's so charming. We really want Ewan McGregor and Sean Penn. Unrealistic, but wouldn't it be great? We've given up on George Clooney because you can only plead for so long. imdb.com Movie and TV News, April 19 2002 (Thanks Vessera and xcbug) Warwick Davis (actor Star Wars: The Phantom Menace) Ewan, is just very laid back, a nice fellow. www.theforce.net (date?) Marius DeVries (musical director Moulin Rouge) Ewan has a very musical temperament and music is a language he understands, although his voice was perhaps a little underdeveloped when we started. For Nicole, though, music was pretty much a foreign language, so she had an awful long way to go before she was able to go in front of the camera. The whole process for Ewan and Nicole and the rest of the cast took an enormous amount of courage — something like standing up stone-cold sober in a karaoke bar in front of 50 million strangers. I wouldn't have fancied doing that. Sound on Sound, November 1 2001 Cameron Diaz (actor A Life Less Ordinary – Celine ) In the film I fall in love with Ewan’s character and you can see how any girl could fall for him in real life too. I loved Ewan’s Scottish accent. He has sex appeal and he is going places. The Americans have already started asking who he is and that’s the first sign of fame. He is an amazing guy, but he is married. Daily Record, June 26 1997 Immediately Ewan and I just fit. We went straight to dance rehearsal for four days. So, we got very close, very fast. W Magazine, September 1997 We laughed for two months solid. Ewan is a remarkable talent. Every thing he does for the camera is so truthful and believable. Calgary Sun, October 19 1997 (Joint interview with Ewan and Cameron) The Face: I've got to ask you about nudity, because you did total nudity in The Pillow Book... Ewan: Love it. The Face: ... which of course you did for art. Cameron: I've heard about this. My girlfriend came over to my house and tried to get me to see it with her for the third time that day. Ewan: Really? Cameron: Swear to God. She'd seen it twice already in one day. And she was like "You have to see it." And I was like: "I don't have to see it. I don't want to see it. I know him." Ewan: (imitating Cameron) "I don't want to see that. I won't be able to look him in the face any more." Cameron: She was like: "There's no wonder Ewan McGregor is confident." Ewan: (filthy cackle) Cameron: (still being her friend) "He doesn't have to be a movie star to be confident, let me tell you". The Face, October 1997 He has a fun, sophomoric sense of humor--- we joke on the set about having gas. And he makes acting seem so easy: He doesn't beat himself up over it. Details, November 1997 We had a great time together. Our first week together we did dance rehearsal, so we were dancing right away. We were cheek to cheek and I'm jumping into his arms off the tables. You start to trust somebody right away - immediate trust. We just started laughing, having a good laugh together. The first day we met one another, it just sort of clicked. We just had a good time from there on out really. Hollywood Online, 1997 (thanks Sandy) He's really amazing. He's such a natural actor, and he makes it look so easy. He's just a good guy. He's a right lad, he is, and we just have a good time together. You know, he's not afraid of his feminine side. Ewan McGregor: From Scotland to the Stars (video), 2000 (thanks Amy) Ewan's fantastic, you know. He's such a natural actor and such a natural person; completely honest and open, and he's just a real person. E!'s 25 Sexiest Men in Entertainment, October 21 2002 Paolo Diotaiuti (waiter Gennaro Pizzeria, Edinburgh) (on working with Ewan in 1989) It was just a summer job but he had a good laugh with customers, especially women. They always left good tips. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) Jim Downie (chairman Crieff Highland Gathering) (about Ewan acting as Chieftain of the Gathering) Ewan did a terrific job. He was always smiling and had a good word for everyone he spoke to. The Strathearn Herald, August 2001 Dennis Drake (screenwriter Down With Love) Ewan is a godsend. What he brings to this immediately from day one is the energy and brightness, which is a real gift for light comedy. Out Magazine, April 2003 (thank you Melanie) Evin Driver (child actor Big Fish) Ewan is my best buddy. When I first met him, he asked me, 'Do you know who I am?' And I said yes, 'Yes, you're Obi Wan Kenobi.' And he said, 'Yes, I was.' The Huntsville Times, April 6 2003 (thank you Karen) Lyn Dunnachie (classmate Morrison’s Academy) (on “going out” with Ewan at age 15) After school we'd have a kiss outside the gate - as long as matron or the house mistress wasn't looking. It was an innocent relationship, there was no funny business. Ewan was a perfect gentleman. It was just long, long kisses. It was beautiful, nothing too serious and very romantic. At the time, if a boy put his hand on a girl's bottom at a disco, that was considered really daring. Ewan would always hold my hand - that was not a problem for him. He was quite happy to be a hand-holder. He was a bright and humorous type of person and the thing that was most memorable about his personality was that his humour was never nasty. He never really had a laugh at anybody's expense or tried to put anybody down. There was this supreme self-confidence, even then, which meant he didn't have to (…) What was most outstanding to me was his maturity and compassion. I was on holiday visiting my father in Libya and he wrote me this incredible, fantastic letter which lifted my spirits. He knew I was having a tough time with my parents' divorce and he wrote me a letter that put it all into perspective. I'd never had a boyfriend who had such insight. Daily Mail, April 15 2002 E......... Nash Edgerton (Ewan’s stunt double Moulin Rouge, Star Wars: Attack of the Clones) Working with Ewan McGregor was great, he was a total sweetheart. We worked together on Moulin Rouge, so Episode II was just more fun together. For the lightsaber fights, both Hayden [Christensen] and Ewan did all of their own moves. I didn't get to do any. They are both just so good at it. But hitting the ground, or for things that were too dangerous, then I would step in. www.starwars.com, May 7 2002 Imogen Edwards-Jones (journalist, author) But confidence is all. Particularly when it comes to talking to celebs. And some bring on the strangest effects. Hugh Grant made me instantly thick, Alan Rickman make me stammer like English was my third language and, faced with Ewan McGregor, I turned into a moron. "I really like your film Velvet Underground, ever so good," I said. "It's Goldmine, Velvet Goldmine," he replied. "And I'm prepared to bet money that you haven't seen it." He was right of course. This is London, September 25 2000 Stephan Elliott (director Eye of the Beholder) It was a very interesting one having the dynamic of Ewan and Ashley (Judd). They were at loggerheads a lot of the time. That’s being printed a lot nowadays and the bottom fact is that they were. They were immediately at each other’s throats, but you know, I sat back thinking: ‘Oh God, how can I make this work?’ You know, ‘I’ve got two stars who don’t want to come within ten feet of each other. Hang on, I can make this work and that’s sheer electricity.’ It became something quite interesting between them and by the final scene in the film, ‘cause they don’t have anything to do with each other, so we kept them apart until the last scene of the movie and we shot that right down the back. The tension in the air for that final scene was horrific. Urban Cinefile, August 10 2000 (about casting) First and foremost was Ewan McGregor. I was looking around for a lot of actors at the time and I had the great pleasure of bumping into Ewan in a bar. By the end of the lunch I think Ewan and I had pretty much decided we wanted to work with each other. DVD Director Commentary Track, 2000 Ashley made up her mind that she wasn't going to talk to Ewan at all throughout the entire shooting of the film and I think Ewan had a few problems with that because he is basically a very social man who loves to chat to everybody but Ashley actually held her ground and did as little talking to him as possible which basically infuriated him at the time. DVD Director Commentary Track, 2000 I worked very extensively with Ewan because it's very tough for him this film. He's done a lot of very showy-off roles in his career where he's done a lot of running and jumping and screaming and being quite big. This is a role where he had sometimes very little to do so we worked very hard on a massive back-story for him that would all be taking place inside. The only way that could get out was through his eyes: Eye of the Beholder. So, there was sheer frustration in him sometimes because I just kept pulling him back a lot of the time and he knew that. He'd sometimes be screaming and yelling before a take and having to scream and yell afterwards to let the energy out. DVD Director Commentary Track, 2000 Ewan's a god. He's a good soul, he's a damn good soul. Ewan's the kind of person I'd love to be friends with at the end of the movie but I know that's never going to happen, which is a shame. Killing Priscilla (documentary on the filming of Eye of the Beholder), 2000 F......... Jimmy Fallon (comic, actor) (about Moulin Rouge) Well I went to go see this movie and the beginning is very fast. I thought I was going to get a headache and leave, I said, 'Well this is going to be crazy.' Then I really got into it and I got the joke, and then when they start singing the songs, this is hysterical, and people were clapping. I love that movie, it was the coolest thing ever (…) You see it's fantastic. Ewan McGregor, unbelievable. Nicole Kidman, beautiful (…) I couldn't stop watching it. I was like, this is a movie!! Rosie O’Donnell Show, June 6 2001 Craig Ferguson (actor, writer, director) I was shooting I'll Be There at the same time as Ewan was making Young Adam and we decided over lunch that we were going to do this scene with Ewan in casualty with a Hoover stuck to his nether regions. Ewan was more than game, but in the end we couldn't get the schedules to square up. But he has made me promise to put the scene in another film. Daily Mail, June 19 2003 Carrie Fisher (actor, author) I love Ewan McGregor. I could eat his head. Star Wars Insider #68, 2003 (thank you Emilie Rose) Tara Fitzgerald (actor Brassed Off – Gloria Mullins) With Ewan it's more mates than passion. Sky International, December 1996 He's a top man. I'm really happy that he's doing so well... He's a cool guy, and he seems to be taking it in his stride. He's got it sorted. New Zealand Listener, August 1997 Ewan, he's great. He's got that twinkle in his eyes. He's definitely got "it". Tatler, December 1997 Heidi Fleiss (former hollywood madam) and Larry King (interviewer) (discussing her boyfriend - actor Tom Sizemore's - role in Black Hawk Down) FLEISS: When he called from Morocco, it sounds like he had a strong, strong camaraderie with all the men down there. It sounded like they were having -- I think him and Ewan McGregor developed a good friendship. KING: He's a great guy. FLEISS: Oh, Tom speaks the world of him. KING: Great guy. Larry King Live, CNN, February 8 2002 Kerry Fox (actor Shallow Grave) (about filming Shallow Grave) It was great fun to film and I remember Andrew McDonald, the producer, saying Ewan was going to be a really big star. Daily Record, April 5 2003 (thank you Karen) Anna Friel (actor Rogue Trader – Lisa Leeson) Ewan is the top leading man. Other than being gorgeous, he's a very talented actor and he's very down to earth. He's someone who's proved to me that you can be a normal person and be very successful and famous. We got on so well. TV Times, March 7 1998 (thank you Karen) (regarding rumours of an affair with Ewan) The press can say what they want. I don’t pay any attention, and Ewan doesn’t give a shit so long as it doesn’t hurt his wife and kid. We speak loads on the phone, we're friends but that's as far as it goes. Sky Magazine, August 1998 Ewan’s a wonderful actor. He and I got on brilliantly. The Telegraph, June 12 1999 Stephen Fry (actor, author, comic) (while hosting the BAFTA awards) I just noticed this floor is so reflective you could see up a girl's skirt. It's a shame it's lost on me. However, it won't be if Ewan McGregor steps out here wearing a kilt. Variety, March 3 2002 John Fugate (circus ringmaster, extra Big Fish) (about Ewan) I watched this guy chase a pig through four circus joints. Not once, not twice, but 17 times. He's got quite a sense of humor. I really enjoyed him. Indianapolis Star, July 13 2003 (thanks spectacular001 and Gail) G......... Steven Gaydos (executive editor Variety) (announcing the choice for Variety's UK Personality Award at the British Independent Film Awards) No major U.K. star has toiled as actively in independent films as Ewan McGregor. It's our great pleasure to honor and celebrate Ewan's career at the BIFA Awards and it is also extremely meaningful for Variety to make a contribution in his name to Ewan's most special charity, Rachel House, Scotland's first children's hospice. Variety, September 19 2002 Melissa George (actor Down With Love - Elkie) I had some good scenes with Ewan. Working with him was great. And we did a photo shoot together for Vanity Fair. We danced to some Beatles songs and Ewan wore a James Bond suit and I wore my blue pillowbox hat. Wow, October 12-18 2002 (thank you Mrs EGM) Sean Gilder (actor Little Malcolm – Nipple) He is a lovely, down-to-earth bloke with a great enthusiasm for the play. He is totally unaffected by all the Hollywood hype. He turns up to the theater on his motorbike for rehearsals and we just have a hoot. The Times, date? 1998 Nick Gillard (fight coordinator Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, Attack of the Clones) While Ewan McGregor took only 3 weeks to train for his fight scenes, most students don't learn as fast as he did and 6-8 weeks is usually the minimum. Source? Ewan was the clumsiest. Every take, something would fall off or he'd drop his lightsaber. People online, June 14 1999 (about the fighting style in Phantom Menace) Ewan picked it up in a flash and now it’s, I should think, faster than any of us. The Phantom Menace DVD “Fighting” featurette, 2001 Ewan - a Jedi master? HA! That daft bugger broke my bloody finger, naturally, I broke one of his in return. He fucking deserved it. Jedi or not there are limits. Empire Magazine, May 2002 Both Ewan and Hayden do all their own stunts in Clones, we didn't double for either of them. In fact Ewan wants to work as a stunt double for me. The next time I do a film with his friend, Bobby Carlyle, he plans to just turn up. Daily Record, May 11 2002 Lauren Graham (actor Nightwatch - Marie) All my scenes were with Patricia Arquette, Ewan MacGregor (sic), and Josh Brolin. They were all lovely, and talked a lot about their children. AOL chat, 1996 Hugh Grant (actor) (about his short haircut for the film About a Boy) It wasn't as cool as I hoped it would be. I kept thinking 'Why is this not working? Why do I not look like Ewan McGregor? Then I looked a long time in the mirror and and realised it's because I look like a lady golfer with a lesbian hair-cut. Sunday Mail, May 19 2002 (Thanks spectacular) Richard E. Grant (actor Serpent's Kiss – Fitzmaurice) Astonishingly grounded - considering the career tornado around him, it's amazing his head doesn't turn around 360 degrees, The Guardian, October 1998 Ewan looks ordinary, till he grins. And here it is. The beam of a better looking Malcolm McDowell in Clockwork Orange. It is simultaneously menacing and mischievous. His self-confidence seems almost entirely free of doubt and paranoia. That much-visited mansion, whose rooms I have for years, held the full set of keys to. Is it arrogance? Not really, though his sense of himself and where he is going is clear, he has a very pragmatic approach and does not ruffle. His thirty-year married parents from Crieff are so tactile, kissy and wholly supportive of him, it’s no wonder. To which he replied to my query of ‘can this be true?’ said ‘sure -- when I went to drama school and heard all these horrendous stories about people’s backgrounds I felt like I was too normal, too un-neurotic to be of interest to anyone.’ So here at the ripe age of 25 he is the outward show of ease at the centre of his own career tornado. Always prepared, considerate, word perfect and no easy push-over. You cannot help but be charmed. With Nails (his book), 1999, (thanks M) Seth Green (actor) (when asked about doing a nude scene for his series Buffy: The Vampire Slayer) I got over it very quickly. I subscribe to Ewan McGregor's philosophy; if you're the only one naked on the set, it's everyone else who feels uncomfortable. Livestar online chat, date? Ian Grieve (co-worker Perth Rep Theatre) (on Ewan’s comments that he was full of himself and an “arse” while working as a stage hand at age 16) Ewan was a good laugh. He certainly wasn’t an arse (…) He was good at the job and willing to learn what he didn’t know. He enjoyed himself while he was working, and the other lads enjoyed his company. The impression you got was that he knew exactly what he was about, what he wanted to do with his life, and that he would do it. We knew his uncle was Denis Lawson but he never made any play of that. He was very down to earth. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) Robin Gurland (casting director Star Wars prequel trilogy) Alec (Guinness) brought a sense of playfulness to many of his roles. Even though Obi-Wan is a serious and strong character, he still has this glint and glimmer in his eyes. And Ewan also has that. www.starwars.com, production notes, May 1 1999 I think my favorite memory was the first day of shooting (The Phantom Menace). Especially when Ewan McGregor was on the set. What everyone was bringing to the roles stood out, and everyone seemed so pleased to be part of the project. And I think it shows in the work. starwars.com online chat, June 7 1999 H......... Nigel Havers (actor) (talking about the death of the “toff” actor) Maybe that's why so many Scots actors want to play English parts, you know, like that Carlyle chap and, what's his name... Ewan McGregor. It's outrageous when you think about it. I would never dream of playing a Scot; it's an absolute scandal. Aberdeen Press and Journal, April 2000 Ethan Hawke (actor) I mean, Jude Law is one of my favourite actors and I love Ewan McGregor, too, but it does amaze me that American directors think they're soooo wonderful that none of us Yanks can compete. Oh, and I tell you what really bugs me is when they get English actors to put on American accents. Oh yeah! Evening Standard, September 12 2002 Todd Haynes (director Velvet Goldmine) I saw him in Trainspotting and thought he was extraordinary, amazing, and when I saw him I couldn't imagine an American actor. No one came to mind that was more suited for that role than Ewan. Early on, that was the only actor I knew from the outside that I wanted for a role. OutSmart Magazine, November 1998 He's a great guy. OutSmart Magazine, November 1998 He had never been able to fulfill his rock-and-roll dreams the way he could in Velvet Goldmine, and I kind of had a feeling he'd be up for it and he'd be good, but I had no idea that he'd be that good. He was really amazing. He really seized command. OutSmart Magazine, November 1998 When I saw Trainspotting, I just could not think of an American actor in his age group with that kind of energy and that kind of physicality. The Johnny Depp generation has this kind of brooding, weighty, introspective quality, very James Deanish. Which is nice, great for a lot of characters. It wasn't what I wanted for Curt. I wanted something very volatile and flame-like, almost. There was just nobody else I could think of. I just thought he was so great, and I wanted to work with him. The Onion, 1998(?) Ewan’s so charismatic, and part of that comes from a devil-may-care attitude about his looks. Because he’s so handsome and doesn’t have to worry. He’s probably about as sexy in this movie as in anything else he’s done. Neon Magazine, November 1998 (on Ewan’s resemblance to Kurt Cobain in the film) It didn't even occur to us on set; we were so caught up in what we doing, and it was only when we saw stills that we realised. At an early early meeting I had with Ewan, he mentioned that someone once confused him with Kurt Cobain -- soon after he died, some girl was tripping and she kept telling him how much he looked like Kurt, so he said, 'When I have long hair I can kind of look like that' -- but I just didn't think about it. Neon Magazine, November 1998 I knew he'd be singing Iggy songs, and that kind of music - which is more about raw, emotive performance on stage than vocal virtuosity - needed to be performed and communicated by the actor. I've heard Ewan sing in Emma, so I was confident he could carry a tune, and I knew he could command a physical performance that would be very exciting. But I didn't know that he could bring the performance to such a seductive, charged level by actually singing the songs himself, getting into them, living them out on stage. He worked a little bit with a voice coach so he'd feel comfortable breaking so many rules of singing by doing the Iggy thing, but since the voice is his own, so is the character. Velvet Goldmine:A Screenplay, November 1998 Ewan was very cool about the sex scenes. I'm not sure an American actor of his age would have been so relaxed. Americans tend to get worried about portraying gay characters - how it will affect their careers. When they do sex scenes, they tend to leap up as soon as you say 'Cut' and start punching walls and joking around with the crew, to reassert their masculinity. Ewan wasn't like that at all... When he was doing scenes with Christian [Bale], the two of them would stay in an embrace between takes, and continue to be tender to one another, shutting out the crew. I felt incredible admiration for how secure about their sexuality they were. Vanity Fair, December 1998 When I first met him, on a set in Limerick, his parents were visiting him and we all went to the pub and drank Guinness. There's obviously such love in that family. You could tell a lot about the stability he comes from - from watching them together. I mean, when they said goodbye, his dad kissed him on the lips. Vanity Fair, December 1998 Ewan looked at tapes, but he is not like a hypertechnical actor who analyzes and does ridiculous amounts of research. He ultimately works very instinctively, but he obviously internalized a lot of that stuff. When he went out on stage, he became so freely all of that stuff. Just that whole pelvic posture is so incredibly Iggy (Pop). I think it was pretty much instinctive on his part. BigStar, 1998 (about the Edinburgh premiere of the film) It was also sort of Ewan's big premiere, cause he couldn't be at Cannes. He wore a kilt. He was so sweet and he was really sort of nervous about it. His parents were seeing it for the first time. He was kind of nervous. It was like forcing these straight guys to have their coming out experience in a way. Ipop (IndieWire’s movie Magazine), date? I am so happy with my casting on this movie. The actors are all extraordinary. Ewan was wonderful. I think it filled a lot of the age-old desires to be a rock star that most of us have, but would be unable to execute with such power. He also sang live, did unbelievably strenuous, outrageous performances and gave 100 percent consistently in every take, while still allowing the performance to feel raw and spontaneous. Miramax Films press kit Mark Herman (director Little Voice, Brassed Off) (about Ewan’s return to the stage in Little Malcolm) It's an interesting twist. Ewan knew he'd been doing too much too quickly; he was a bit frazzled. This will probably be good for him. This is London, November 3 1998 (about Ewan in Little Voice) You know you see the guy in "Trainspotting" against this guy here or the guy in "Brassed Off," he's so brilliant and so diverse in the work he does. The same applies to Jane, you know. People who've seen Jane Horrocks. . . they don't know that it's the same girl. Chameleons. It was good getting Ewan on this, like you said it was casting against type, but he adds a real charm to what was basically a fairly nerdy character. He's such a hip actor but it's such an un-hip role. There have been people in England who've seen this film -- obviously Ewan's very famous in England -- who have seen it without really realizing that it was him. You just flatten his hair and he looks completely different. IndieWire, December 14 1998 Ewan plays a charming nerd well. It's a real testament to his acting. Ritz FilmBill 1999 He's still got his feet on the ground. Though he's become a huge star, he's still the same person. It's quite refreshing. Ritz FilmBill 1999 (about Ewan in Little Voice) I think he was already casted when I got the job, but I would have used him anyway. He was very keen to do it. He knew Jane, and knew me from Brassed Off. He had just done Star Wars: Episode 1 and wanted a holiday in Scarborough. This wasn't a big job for him, he did it for friends really. It's actually a very good performance. It's a very nerdy character, he brought charm to it. Queer View, February 12 1999 He's had such a quick rise, but I believe he's got his head screwed on right enough to prepare for the huge amount of publicity he's going to get. US Magazine, June 1999 He's really just a down-to-earth bloke. US Magazine, June 1999 The few times I've used him they've been very low-key performances but I think he's great at that. In Brassed Off, there were scenes where you'd do the take and you'd think Ewan didn't do anything. Then you get the film back and he's not doing anything but you just can't take your eyes off him because he's actually working so subtly. Amazon.co.uk, August 2000 John Hodge (writer Shallow Grave, Trainspotting, A Life Less Ordinary) (Ewan is) a nice person with a hard edge, but vulnerable. Big Issue, October 1997 John Hopkins (MotoGP motorcycle racer) (about the Cannes premiere of Faster, a motorcycle racing documentary narrated by Ewan) Meeting Ewan McGregor, that's pretty cool, you know. Real down to earth guy, something you'd never expect from big movie stars. Could be really good for the sport with big movie stars getting involved. www.fastermovie.com, May 2003 (thank you Mary) Samantha Horley (senior vp international distribution Myriad Pictures) (on selling Borgia at the Cannes Film Festival - note: Myriad later pulled out of the film) We’re having a great response to our projects. Borgia, with Ewan McGregor and Christina Ricci, is red hot, and with all the publicity for Star Wars: L’attaque des Clones along the Croisette, the lovely Ewan is so à la mode. I love markets where either I’m selling a project that sells itself or where I believe passionately in it. With Borgia and My Dark Places I have both. movingpicturesonline.com, May 2002 Jane Horrocks (actor Little Voice - LV, Tales from the Crypt) (presenting Ewan with Best British Actor award at the 1996 Empire Awards) I just finished working with this actor, we were playing zombies together, and all I can say is he can dig me out of a ‘shallow grave’ any day. How’s that for a line straight out of Blind Date? And an enormous clue at that. The inhumanely talented Ewan McGregor… Empire, April 1996 (pondering where they could have inserted a nude scene for Ewan in Little Voice) I wonder where he could have exposed himself in the film. In his pigeon coop, I think! The Times, 1999 (regarding the duet she and Ewan recorded for her album) Ewan's a pal. He was in Little Voice, and we've kept in touch. I have a great admiration for him, so I thought it would be nice for him to be on the album. Plus, he's an enormous star, so I thought it might help sales. Heheheh. Sunday Times, 2000 Roy Hudd (actor Lipstick on Your Collar - Harold Atterbow) Ewan was mesmerising even then - you couldn't take your eyes off him. He was starring with big names and acted them off the screen. The Daily Record, April 9 2002 (thanks Karen) Harry Humphries (military technical advisor Black Hawk Down) All our principal players are looking very good. But I have to say Ewan McGregor is one of the fastest learners I've ever met. He's just so natural, he looks like he's been doing this all his life. Total Film, February 2002 (thank you Padawan Rahalia) I......... Jason Isaacs (actor Black Hawk Down - Cpt Steele) (on the actors' one week boot camp training experience) You don't understand, Ewan McGregor doesn't take orders from me. But god bless him, for a week he did. Rise, Channel 4 morning show, October 29 2002 (thanks Val) J......... Samuel L. Jackson (actor Star Wars: The Phantom Menace – Mace Windu ) (on his worries about having to wear a kilt in the film 51st State) I’ve never had to cross-dress in any way, even on stage, so it’s a whole new phenomenon for me. I read up a bit on kilts and the costume designer, Kate Carin, gave me a few books on how to wear them and how it’s a whole attitude thing. Then I saw Ewan MacGregor (sic) in one at the Star Wars premiere and he looked really proud. Preview, Issue 52, July-August 2001 The good thing for Hayden was that he got to spend the majority of his time working with Ewan. It was basically a master-Padawan relationship in real life. Mercury News, May 12 2002 (Thanks Spectacular) Ewan's a really good guy. He's basically like a master padawan. He comes to work every day prepared to do his job, and he has a great time when he is doing it. He's a huge practical joker. He enjoys himself. You can't do that unless you can do your job. Starlog, September 2002 (thanks Maheret) Sally Jay (make-up artist Lipstick on Your Collar) He was very scruffy when he arrived. He was all mousey and spotty so we did a bit of a transformation. We got the hair curlers on his head, the face packs on and he loved it. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) Dan Jinks (producer Down With Love, Big Fish) (about Ewan in Down With Love) He’s been working out with a trainer for weeks now. He looks incredible. He’s supposed to be this macho playboy guy, we wanted to accentuate the leading-man body. Out Magazine, April 2003 (thanks Candlefairy) What Ewan has in common with Rock Hudson’s screen persona is that he's a guy who women find incredibly attractive - along with gay men - and he also makes men feel incredibly comfortable. He really is a ladies' man and a guy's guy. Out Magazine, April 2003 (thank you Melanie) We needed somebody who on the one hand could be very macho so women would love him and guys could feel incredibly comfortable with him, but he also had to be a really, really good actor to do this kind of stylized piece and be completely committed to it. I don't know that there's a better looking guy who's as good an actor as Ewan. We really feel like we hit the jackpot with him. I think people who see the movie are surprised. They expect Ewan to always be great because he's always great, but he played a character in this film that he had never played before and the performance is just tremendous, I think. Hollywood Reporter, May 16 2003 (thank you Gail) Robert Jones (producer Serpent’s Kiss) The first time I saw him in Lipstick on Your Collar he immediately just stood out as being someone who had presence. I think there are similarities between him and a young Albert Finney. He’s a bit of a rogue, he’s very likeable and cheeky. But he has a real believability. It helps if you are an actor and you are instantly likeable. Even if he plays characters that aren’t 100 per cent sympathetic there is just a quality that allows him to get away with it because you kind of forgive them. The eyes are important, that smile too. He’s very personable, and he is a very genuine bloke in real life. I do think that comes across. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) Ewan stayed loyal in the face of bigger offers. He committed a good six to eight months before the film was shot. In that time there were a lot of people after him for other things. He stayed very true to it. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) Ashley Judd (actor Eye of the Beholder – Joanna Erris) He is so lovable -- and his wife is an extraordinary woman -- and they've got a really gorgeous baby girl. Entertainment Tonight, January 24 2000 A very sweet kid. Guardian, January 25 2000 I had an idea that I'm not too proud to admit to, that we shouldn't meet until the end of the movie, when our characters finally do. But Ewan is far too social too accept that as an acting agenda. So he took pictures of himself that were developed in stages and they were really creepy looking. And it said at the bottom of it in some very scratchy hand- writing, 'I'm watching you', and he taped it to my hotel door. So when I came out I was totally taken aback freaked out. I think what he did was to convince me that I would have far too many of these pranks ahead of me if I did not succumb to his charms and start to have fun immediately. Coventry Evening Telegraph, June 9 2000 K......... Elizabeth Karlsen (producer Little Voice) Ewan was brilliant, he is a great actor and we loved making the film with him. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) John Kasek (actor Young Adam) (about working on the film Young Adam) It was just a small part and I can’t really say anything about it without giving the plot away, but Ewan was in the scene. Actually, we had a small conversation because we have some mutual pals who had asked me to pass on some messages. I’m always scared the person goes ‘who?’ when you say so and so was asking for them, and you’re left looking like a prune. It was OK, though. It turned out they had been neighbours and Ewan was a really nice, chatty guy. Edinburgh Evening News, May 23 2002 Fred Kaufman (executive producer PBS’ Nature) (about Ewan in Bear Facts, aka The Polar Bears of Churchill, documentary shown on the PBS’ Nature series) (McGregor) is so much fun, so excited about it. You have to find the right personality, who really goes into it enthusiastically and gives of themselves on camera. Associated Press, May 13 2002 (thanks Cynic) Ronan Keating (singer) (discussing his unsuccessful audition for Moulin Rouge) I mean, I'm happy for Nicole, she did a wonderful job and Ewan too, he was brilliant. I mean, he is Obi Wan Kenobi, you don't say 'no' to him. Skinner, ITV, October 19 2002 (thanks Sumaire) Chris Kelly (producer Kavanagh QC) He had to be this adorable young man which he played so convincingly. He still wasn’t too well known when he worked on Kavanagh, and he was very excited to be working. He was very committed without wearing it on his sleeve. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) I vividly remember traveling back to London with him by car, and I made it quite clear he was definitely going to be very big. He was very confident, but very modest too. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) Emma is an example of why I think he has to be a bit more careful. No-one can play everything. In Emma he wasn’t perhaps cast as accurately as he might have been. I’m sure that’s something he would agree with himself. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) Jane Kennedy (classmate Morrison’s Academy) (on Ewan’s attitude just before dropping out of school) Ewan was confident, happy and joined in with anything that was going on (…) He could also, sometimes, be quite quiet, but not often. I remember when he was about 16 he withdrew very much from the crowd. It was noticeable he wasn’t happy. He became very much quieter and didn’t get so involved with people. I remember in the playground he never used to join in with the usual banter. He wouldn’t be as bad as standing on his own, but he would stick to his closest friends. There was obviously a lot on his mind. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) Justine Kershaw (producer The Bear Facts) (on Ewan’s participation in the polar bear documentary) We wanted someone who really enjoyed extremes of temperature and remoteness, and who would get to the bottom of the whole situation in Churchill. Ewan threw himself into it whole-heartedly. Mail on Sunday Magazine, March 18 2001 Antonia Kidman (reporter, Nicole Kidman’s sister) I've interviewed so many fun and interesting people, but the standout for me was Ewan McGregor. I'm such a huge fan! Woman’s Day, October 2001 Of all the people I've interviewed Ewan McGregor was definitely one of my best. He was a riot, a typical Scotsman. Kind of wild but in a good way. Sunday Mail, January 19 2003 Nicole Kidman (actor Moulin Rouge – Satine) He'll end up with a top ten hit, believe me. I can actually see him giving up acting and becoming a rock star. He's totally, completely suited to it. Don't be surprised. Vogue, December 2000 He's got such a beautiful voice. I must have heard him sing 'Your Song' 600 times, and I still go, 'Wow'. I mean, he can hit high C! Details, May 2001 (on rumours she had an affair with Ewan) I can't believe people are saying there was something going on between Ewan and I. Ewan is a lovely guy and he's a friend. We spent a long time on this film. During all that time Ewan's wife Eve was there and she's a mate of mine. We went out, she and I, and had some fun together. It's crazy. Eve's pregnant with Ewan's baby, which she'll have in October I think. Daily Mail, May 12 2001 (thanks Sue for setting me on the trail of this one) (reading the interviewer’s transcript of Baz Luhrmann’s comments on her relationship with Ewan) (Baz) said, "of course people said Nicole and Ewan are having an affair. They're inseparable. But as far as I know, there was a line. It just didn't happen. But it was very close." Please. There was no affair, I promise you. But we did have fun. Entertainment Tonight, May 14 2001 Ewan McGregor is so divine in it. He's totally divine. Entertainment Tonight, May 17 2001 From the minute we met we just went, "I like you, you're a good guy." He has such a genuine type of quality, he's Scottish. You can't say it on TV, but he's just, you know what I mean, he's no bull... (laugh) …He is, and it's very easy to work with someone like that and he also makes you laugh. He's got one of the best laughs. Entertainment Tonight, May 17 2001 With Ewan, it was kind of unusual, because it was - you know, he'd give me goose bumps (laughs). And I was nervous to kiss him! So, was he a good kisser? Excellent! Yeah, he could make you blush. I mean, I blush in the film, and I'd be embarrassed to dance in front of him sometimes. I mean, I really kind of cared what he would think. Australian Empire Magazine, May 2001 When Ewan would sing to me, it was like magic, which is what we wanted to create in the film, anyway, so it wasn't very hard to do. When he would sing the Elton John song, "Your Song," I've heard that, it must be 600 hundred times, him singing it to me, and every time he does it, it still evokes an immediate emotional adoration of him. www.reel.com, Cannes Press Conference, May 2001 (about Ewan teasing her that her character is a skanky whore) I'd say, 'You're meant to be in love with me! You cannot refer to me as a skanky old whore!' And he'd go, 'Oh yeah….sorry’. Details, May 2001 Everyone always asks me about Ewan! All the girls are in love with Ewan, but he has the most gorgeous wife so everyone has to... you know... Eve, she's really lovely. She's just about to have a baby actually - French wife, very smart and very beautiful (...) He's like, he's this breath of fresh air, he really is because he is just so enthusiastic and he's warm and he has no pretentions and he's just about the work and also about having fun, so yeah - I just adore him! BBC Radio1, The Breakfast Show, September 6 2001 (Ewan and I) got on famously - except the first thing he said to me was, 'oh I've got a really bad zit’. I remember that and I thought 'good start!' Daily Record, October 13 2001 There is another man that I would never have done this film without and that is Ewan McGregor. He’s so special, a magnificent person, a magnificent actor and he just makes you better being in a scene with you, so work with him. Golden Globe Best Actress acceptance speech, January 20 2002 (describing her audition during a speech introducing Baz Luhrmann at the Directors Guild Awards) So I had to audition with every young hot male actor in Hollywood. We were writhing around on a couch. I would have to undo their belts and take down their pants and say dialogue like, 'Oh my, you are a big boy, aren't you?' Anyway, Ewan McGregor got the role so we know who the biggest boy is. www.accesshollywood.msn.com, March 2002 (thanks Jessica and Destyne) (discussing rumours of an affair with Ewan) You're having to spend so much time together and if you have chemistry, that feeds into it. Ewan and I thought, 'Just screw it. We're really good friends and no-one's going to take that away from us.' And I adore him. He's amazing, wonderful and gorgeous, just as his wife is a lovely woman. NW Magazine, April 1 2002 (thanks spectacular001) (describing her thoughts on meeting Ewan for the first time at an awards ceremony) I thought, 'This is a strange boy.' We were so different but Baz thought we'd be good on screen together and we just clicked. We clicked as people and as friends. It was lovely. He's very protective of me. (On set, we) would walk around holding hands and we were very close friends. NW Magazine, April 1 2002 (thanks spectacular001) I am a romantic at heart and I trust people, so I'm not ruling out the possibility of falling in love or marrying again. The problem is now I only have to be seen walking down the street with a man and the press has me in a new relationship. Ewan McGregor was really good about all the stuff they wrote. He just said, 'Fuck 'em!' - and would stand by my side at screenings. He was such a support. Australian Women's Weekly, May 2002 (Thanks Noahs Dove) (when asked to say the 1st thing that came to her mind when various actors where named) Ben Chaplin: "Quirky, darling, and really underrated." Viggo Mortensen: "Sexy and poetic." Ewan McGregor: "Just one of the dearest, most gorgeous men to walk the earth." Jude Law: "The most open spirit, giving, Jude glows." Russell Crowe: "My best friend. Loyal, loyal. Fiercely loyal. And strong. A deep friendship for the rest of our lives. I'll be there for him for everything. It's nice to have him in the world. He's always been kind to me." Tom Cruise: "Great actor." Elle, January 2003 (on press reports she had an affair with her Cold Mountain co-star Jude Law) He's a wonderful man and a good friend of mine, but there was no affair. We spent seven months shooting and it's an intense love story so we were waiting for that. They did it with Ewan McGregor too, on 'Moulin Rouge'. Reuters, April 3 2003 (thanks Karen) Neil Kilgour (extra Young Adam) We did get to meet Ewan and he was nice. There were a couple of children from Grangemouth there as well and he spoke to them about the new Star Wars film. The Falkirk Herald April 6 2002 (thanks spectacular001) Larry King (interviewer) and Heidi Fleiss (former hollywood madam) (discussing her boyfriend - actor Tom Sizemore's - role in Black Hawk Down) FLEISS: When he called from Morocco, it sounds like he had a strong, strong camaraderie with all the men down there. It sounded like they were having -- I think him and Ewan McGregor developed a good friendship. KING: He's a great guy. FLEISS: Oh, Tom speaks the world of him. KING: Great guy. Larry King Live, CNN, February 8 2002 Lindy King (Ewan’s agent) (on Ewan's frenetic work schedule and eclectic film choices) Ewan wants to grow as an actor. Actors don't really do repertory theater anymore - so Ewan has been using the last couple of years as his own repertory experience on-screen. Vanity Fair, December 1998 He’s outrageous, he’s very witty, he loves to play with words and he just wants everybody to have the best time that they possibly can which is very infectious. Revealed, E!Entertainment Television, January 19 2002 (on being one of 11 agents who tried to sign Ewan from drama school) I would love to say I'm an unbelievably perceptive agent and I saw in him something nobody else did. Wrong. There was a feeding frenzy cause he's extraordinary. Ewan McGregor Revealed, E!Entertainment Television, January 19 2002 (Thanks Karen) (on Ewan’s role choices) I think he's attracted to the dark side. He loves exploring the dark side of people's psyche and the dark side of their life, in order to taste it and experience it. Ewan McGregor Revealed, E!Entertainment Television, January 19 2002 (Thanks Karen) Paul Kininmonth (classmate Kirkcaldy College of Technology drama course) When we started Ewan was interested in stage management and he took a great interest in that throughout the course. By the end of the second (student) show it was obvious there was more commitment and maturity being shown by the people in the class. It was also noticeable at that time just how much Ewan had grown in confidence with what he was doing. At the same time, there was no bullshit about him. If anyone was going to do well on the course, I reckoned at the time it would be him. He was so confident. He shone in everything he did. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) Ewan was a great guy, who was very much the Valentino of the class. I think the girls chased him quite a bit. If he was interested he would go for it. Other guys in the class tried and generally failed. We were envious of how well Ewan did. Ewan McGregor: The Unauthorized Biography, 1998 (thanks Karen) Keira Knightley (actor Star Wars: The Phantom Menace) I fell off the back of a golf cart that Ewan was on. To this day, I can't look at him without being embarrassed. All I was wearing was a bathrobe, some tights, and some knickers, and I literally went flying with my legs over my head and everything on display. www.MegaStar.co.uk, August 14 2003 (thank you Claude) L......... Jude Law (actor, co-founder Natural Nylon) It's so funny thinking that my son is probably going to be obsessed with Uncle Ewan. It'll be,'Can Obi-Wan come over?' To be honest, my contemporaries are my inspiration. I've known Ewan for six or seven years, I've known Jonny (Lee Miller) for 12 years. We used to count out pennies to buy chips together, and now we're doing all right, which is great. Detour, November 1997 (when asked if McGregor will ever tone down the drinking) He's a Scotsman. It's like moving mountains, it'll never happen. Whiskey chasers. God, he drinks me under the table. Source? 1999 (when asked if he and Ewan have discussed the kind of fame he will experience once Star Wars is released) He's one of my best friends but it's quite hard to approach the subject. You don't necessarily want to bring it up and put the fear of God into him. I think there's a side of him that can't wait, but I think there's also a side of him that's kind of fearful because you lose a lot of your privacy. But we haven't talked about it. We probably need to. He needs to probably hear that from a friend because it's quite intimidating. Source? 1999 (about Ewan’s role in Star Wars) I can't tease him. My sons worship him. We had a "Star Wars" birthday party, and my baby son was Obi-Wan. I wouldn't ever begin to tease a Jedi knight. Newsweek, December 1999 Ewan McGregor and Jonny Lee Miller and I have known each other for many years. They are my dearest friends, and there is never any competition, just understanding and respect. Now we all have families and don’t see each other as much, but it’s still nice to know that there is a kind of reality check available with them. Plus it’s very cool having Obi-Wan Kenobi as a friend when you’ve got a 3- and a 9-year old. Gannet Press, February 3 2000 I took Raff (Jude’s son) to see ‘Uncle Ewan’ in the Phantom Menace and since then he isn’t Ewan anymore, he’s Obe-Wan (sic) Kenobi. I’m not even allowed to call him Ewan or Raff tells me off! B, April 2000 My friend Ewan McGregor and I are starkers in most of our films. Once you've done one nude scene, directors and producers are all over you to do one for their film. So few male actors will do nude scenes. Calgary Sun, March 11 2001 (when asked if there is rivalry between him, Ewan, Jonny Lee Miller and Sean Pertwee) We're very good friends and no rivalries. It's never been rivalries, and that's the interesting thing. We really are very good friends, and we've all got families now, we've got commitments to work, we disappear for months on end. So it's like any friendship when you're growing up. You drift apart. But we're still all in contact. We write to each other, we ring each other, we abuse each other a bit on the phone, we send abusive e-mails and stuff like that. Entertainment Weekly ( date?) 2001 Denis Lawson (actor, director Little Malcolm, Ewan's uncle) Ewan is a different personality to me and I think one of the reasons he succeeds is because he is very self assured and has a very strong sense of who he is, which he is able to project. It usually takes actors a few years to find that and he had it right from the word go. When he was thinking of training, I advised him, but I’m not some kind of guru. Ewan absolutely has made his own decisions and knows how to work for himself. And boy does he work. Daily Record, February 21 1998 He's a very generous actor who very much puts himself on a par with the other actors. He has a great ability to treat everyone he meets in exactly the same way, no matter who they are. Variety, March 8 1999 (on Ewan’s performance in Little Malcolm) He's not much good. I'm thinking of getting rid of him. Guardian, August 20 1999 (about Moulin Rouge – before the film was released) I heard some of Ewan in Moulin Rouge, it's a full blown musical and his voice is just fantastic. Nicole Kidman sounded wonderful too. I saw some material and they’re both quite phenomenal. Empire online, October 2000 Ewan is what I'd call a precocious talent. Very similar to Albert Finney, who made it at 24, as Ewan has, then went on to do even more. He's very centred as a person and that allows him to be fearless as to how he's seen on screen. People ask if I get tired of having my name yoked to his so much and, honestly, the answer is no. We've always been very close, so it's just a natural progression. Our relationship is a very easy one, a lot of laughs. Its very nice, very gratifying. The Sunday Times, May 20 2001 (thank you Karen) He was playing Orlando in As You Like It in his second year at drama college, and he was extraordinary. He was on a completely different level from everybody else. But I couldn't say at the time because it was too much. I couldn't say to him, 'You know you're going to be a huge star.' I couldn't even say to my sister. It was just silly. But what surprised me was how fast it happened. That was fantastic. The Herald, 22 May 2001 (on 9-year old Ewan telling him he wanted be an actor) I remember him being very serious and he wasn't um...our relationship wasn't ever very serious so I knew that he meant it at that time. But, he never wavered from it. Never. Ewan McGregor Revealed, E!Entertainment Television, January 19 2002 (Thanks Karen) (on Ewan's comments that Denis inspired him to become an actor) It's lovely to hear that and I feel proud of what he's achieved. As a wee boy, Ewan didn't know any actors apart from me so he used to watch me in theatre a lot. I'm glad he felt inspired by what he saw. Daily Record, August 10 2002 (about casting and directing Ewan in the short film Solid Geometry) I approached Ewan late in the day because I was aware of not making him feel obliged to take part. While my professional relationship with Ewan is important, our private relationship is more valuable to me. Daily Record, August 10 2002 (on asking Ewan to star in the short film Solid Geometry) I thought, what if I don’t ask him to do this and he sits down and watches it and says: ‘Why the hell didn’t you ask me?’ (But) I was apprehensive, I don’t like Ewan to be involved in something like this because he feels obliged. I really would hate that. My personal relationship with him is too valuable. The Sunday Times, September 8 2002 (thanks to Sessan who found it at Josie's site: Mad about Ewan) (on directing Ewan's sex scene in Solid Geometry) There was a lot of shouting from the bed, ‘Uncle Denis, what now?’ The Sunday Times, September 8 2002 (thanks to Sessan and Josie) (on seeing Ewan in a musical recital in high school) They had this little competition where everybody played solos. There was an air of concentration that he had. And I thought then that he somehow understood this thing of drawing an audience in. The Sunday Times, September 8 2002 (thanks to Sessan and Josie) (describing how seeing Ewan in a student production of As You Like it convinced him Ewan would make it as an actor) I didn’t know he was going to do it quite so fast, but he had incredible charisma. The Sunday Times, September 8 2002 (thanks to Sessan and Josie) John Leguizamo (actor Moulin Rouge – Toulouse Lautrec) Nicole loves to goof, and so does Ewan. We played a lot of games. We would play tag, chasing each other in our period costumes. USA Today, June 20, 2001 Ewan is amazing, such a naturally gifted actor. Some of us have to work and think about things, he just shows up. He is who he is, he's naturally charismatic, he just brings it to the role, and he has this incredible generosity. www.fox.co.uk (date?) Jay Leno (talk show host, comedian) In a phone survey by Jane magazine, Ewan McGregor was voted the man that most young women think about while masturbating. Who answers the phone while masturbating? The Tonight Show monologue, May 19, 2003 (thank you Becky) Daniel Logan (actor Star Wars:Attack of the Clones - Boba Fett) I always think about Ewan. It was so fun with him - we always knocked around on the set, and it always took at least three takes. He was my best friend on the set. Star Wars Insider: Issue 57, June 2001 Alison Lohman (actor Big Fish) We had to do a kissing scene, and I was so nervous. So the first time he met me, Ewan came straight up and kissed me right away, to get rid of the awkwardness. USA Weekend September 5-7 2003 (thank you Tragic-ookami) Ewan McGregor is charming. He's just really sweet and a total gentleman. The Morning Call, September 6 2003 (thank you Gail) George Lucas (director Star Wars) We looked at a lot of people, but he came out best. The chemistry was there with the other cast members, and he gave his heart and soul. I'd been very impressed with Trainspotting. GQ, May 1999 Ewan knows how to make a line believable, to make it sound fresh. He makes things, even absurd things, seem real. GQ, May 1999 Ewan's talent will win out over everything. He's got a great future. He will survive Star Wars. GQ, May 1999 Ewan is witty, enthusiastic and impatient. These are qualities of Obi-Wan. I'm always looking for actors whose own personality will emerge and enrich the characters they play. Calgary Sun, May 11 1999 The first thing Ewan said to me was that I had to give him the role because his uncle (Denis Lawson) had played X-wing pilot Wedge Antilles in the first three films. I told him that was a good enough reason. Calgary Sun, May 11 1999 I looked for somebody who is physically right for the part and has the personality that is right for the part. I wanted Obi-Wan to have a little mischievous nature, which is what Alec Guinness had, and I wanted him to be strong but also kind of impetuous and impatient with his mentor. And I think Ewan sort of qualifies in all those areas. Film Review, August 1999 (about Attack of the Clones) (Ewan’s) a great actor. It’s a very hard role – I would actually say it’s the hardest of all roles because he’s the steady center of the story and it doesn’t give him a big range to work in. Stars of Star Wars, 2002 (Thanks Jen) Ewan had the energy, grace and enthusiasm to be the young Obi-Wan Kenobi. It's a very difficult role -- perhaps the hardest of all the roles because he's the steady center of the Star Wars saga. Ewan is a brilliant actor with depths that I don't think have been tapped yet in his varied performances. Variety, October 28 2002 Baz Luhrmann (director Moulin Rouge) He's an actor who informs a love song in a way you simply don't get - Ewan could be the Frank Sinatra of this new period. Vogue, December 2000 Ewan McGregor is a slam-dunk rock star. Vogue, December 2000 Ewan is genetically built to be a romantic hero. But we've never seen him this way. I don't guarantee anyone's experience of something I've made, but I can guarantee that he'll be a revelation to the audience. Details, May 2001 I didn't have to convince him to take the role. He ran toward it. He gets to sing and dance…and he gets to kiss Nicole Kidman. Details, May 2001 (about rumours Ewan and Nicole Kidman had an affair) Of course people said, “Nicole and Ewan are having an affair. They’re inseparable.” People love stories like that. I’m not surprised by it. It can happen. But as far as I know, there was a line. It just didn’t happen. But it was very close. I mean, look, they’re two gorgeous-looking people. Movieline, June 2001 Once we got Nicole and Ewan together, they really fired off each other beautifully. She’s classy and elegant, and he’s so spirited and alive. www.supertrendy.com, July 2001 What you get out of Ewan in this film is the tense emotional depth he is capable of. He’s seen for the first time as a truly romantic hero. Ewan is a deeply romantic person, but the emotional depth you see in him is truly remarkable. Esquire, September 2001 (about Ewan’s acting in Satine’s death scene) It’s always a surprise even for me but when Ewan does that scene, I mean, you know undoubtably actors can just, you know, they can turn on the waterworks but that’s what it’s not about. It’s not about crying, it’s actually about really exposing yourself emotionally (…) it’s only when you feel completely distraught that you would make that kind of guttural and embarrassing but deeply, deeply exposing sound. It’s embarrassing in the sense that you’re completely open and vulnerable and I think it was really…it was one of the great…boy you appreciate when an actor can expose their emotions at that level. DVD Commentary Track, 2001 He’s incredibly bright, like fast bright, clever, super sharp. He has a world perspective, he understands culture, he can talk about… it isn’t just movies or being in the industry. Revealed, E!Entertainment Television, January 19 2002 But I save a special moment, a very special moment for Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman who never ever gave up, who never ever backed away, and I thank you so much for that. Golden Globes Best Picture Musical or Comedy acceptance speech, January 20 2002 (Ewan is) dangerously charming and lovable. He has a beguiling energy which is lethal. W Magazine, February 2002 He is in full command of his powers now, and he's spreading his wings. He started as a cult antihero and has evolved to the point where he's singing and dancing in one film and holding a machine gun in another. He is scarily intelligent and talented as an actor. W Magazine, February 2002 It's much easier to find an actor today who plays like a pale photocopy of Marlon Brando - like "Gee, I'm suffering." But it is (difficult) to get a young actor to stand, look at the camera, and sing, "I love you" without a jot of cynicism - that is hard to find, and for me, that's Ewan McGregor's great achievement. About.com, date? (on the initial reaction to Moulin Rouge at the Cannes Film Festival) The Hollywood Reporter said something like, Fox is really in trouble with this one - it's a tough sell. Nicole and I are devastated. We got everyone into this, and now they're being humiliated. Ewan, always at his best in difficult times, was great. I was standing on a rocky outcrop doing my obligatory 50 press interviews when I saw him across the way doing the same. Then he turned toward me, smiled, and yelled out, "Oh, fuck 'em!" Vogue, November 2002 (thanks Alyse) Ewan brings a soul to the set and he's a bit of a prankster. He'd do something outrageous to relieve the tension. But for all his perceived wildness, he's extraordinarily professional. Variety, October 28 2002 There's a phrase he uses: he'll say, 'It's such a treat.' He had to go from Cary Grant screwball comedy in the beginning to a genuine emotional naturalist in the end -- and he had to sing and dance. Ewan can do anything he puts his mind to. Variety, October 28 2002 He's right center stage now in etching this body of work. He hasn't arrived -- he is. Variety, October 28 2002 Susan Lynch (actor Nora – Nora) The most un-LA person I’ve ever met. He was brilliant. I mean the amazing thing about Ewan is that he could have done anything. He could have done anything that he wanted, but he stuck with the project. He just loved the relationship between Nora and Joyce and the openness of it, and how it was saying new stuff about love and not the usual formulaic love story. It has a complexity to it that actually does exist in most relationships. Irish News, April 20 2000 I could not have done this part without the support of the people at Natural Nylon, and my work relationship with Ewan was extraordinary. He is just a wonderful actor. I felt I had a huge responsibility to Natural Nylon and Ewan who had rescued us. It was the most supportive film I have ever worked on. The Herald, May 18 2000 He is brilliant. We had great fun making the film. www.smh.com.au, May 20 2000 Ewan McGregor, Pat Murphy (the director) and myself put our souls into every scene. It was a total effort of collaboration between the three of us. Ewan is a fabulous person. To step in with his company Natural Nylon and fund a film which we thought would never be made and in which his role is so secondary, shows what a great man he is. The Irish Post, June 3 2000 Ewan's just like Rachel [Weisz, her co-star in Beautiful Creatures], a rare find. He has this enormous star status and he's just extraordinary really. He's the kind of person who walks into a room and is just interested in the people there. He realises his power but he's also very proud of where he came from and how he got there. So he uses it in a very productive and positive way. Nora was such a big thing for Natural Nylon [the production company McGregor runs with Jude Law, Jonny Lee Miller, Sadie Frost and Sean Pertwee] because it's a very young company. He really strove for that to happen. He's a risk taker in that way. He'll not really care what the rest of the world thinks. When he's got something in his head he'll just go for it.' The Telegraph, Jan 6, 2001 Ma......... Alan MacDonald (Lossiemouth Millenium Association member) (on Ewan’s appearance in the small Scottish town to officially turn on their new Christmas lights) We're really pleased, it's been a terrific night and good for the town of Lossiemouth. People have come out in enormous numbers. Ewan was so relaxed and got on with the crowds tremendously well – the whole thing was first class. The Press and Journal, December 3 2000 Andrew Macdonald, (producer Shallow Grave, Trainspotting, A Life Less Ordinary) (on Trainspotting) The only piece of casting we did in advance was Ewan. He's going to be a big movie star, isn't he? Him I should be staying friendly with. Premiere, March 1996 He is something special. He’ll soon get offers which could make, break or turn him into a big star. We’re lucky to have him. Tell him to take two steps back, one to the side and do a back flip while singing, and he’ll do it three times exactly right. He looks ordinary, but he’s magic looking on camera. No question, he’s part of our core team. It’s four of us now. Telegraph Magazine, September 27 1997 (about the casting of A Life Less Ordinary) There was a lot of nonsense talked about Brad Pitt wanting to be in the picture - we met him and he was a super guy but it wouldn't have mattered who it was, it was written for Ewan. Empire Magazine, November 1997 (on Trainspotting) John Hodge the writer, Danny Boyle the director and Ewan McGregor and I were very much a team. Esquire, March 1998 (about the decision to cast Leonardo DiCaprio over Ewan in The Beach) There was definite anger from Ewan, but I understand it; he wanted to do it. Premiere, January 17 2000 (about the decision to cast Leonardo DiCaprio over Ewan in The Beach) Ewan is not the only one who's upset that he didn't work on the film. There's a brilliant cameraman, Brian Tufano, who's not very happy either, but nobody cares about him because it's nothing to do with Leo. The Guardian, Jan 2000 Kelly Macdonald (actor Trainspotting – Diane) (about her sex scene with Ewan) I was really nervous. Absolutely dreading that scene but I knew that I just had to go for it, as, if I didn't get it right, I was going to have to - I was going to say 'bang away at it' - but maybe that's not the best choice of words. Ewan's used to doing sex scenes so he really helped. Then again, all he had to do was lie there. Independent, November 18 1999 (discussing Ryan Phillippe, her co-star in Gosford Park) He's very unassuming and kept pretty much to himself, wandering around the outskirts and watching. He's a one-on-one type of person, not like Ewan McGregor, who gets everyone involved. NW, March 25 2002 (Thanks Spectacular001) David Mackenzie (director Young Adam) In terms of finance, having Ewan playing an antihero certainly brought its difficulties. Ewan's determination helped make the film happen. He's playing this character who is not likeable or dislikeable - he can be vulnerable, or human, or a complete cunt. So financiers would say, 'Where's the sympathy?' And Ewan would answer, 'Where's the sympathy in Marlon Brando's character in Last Tango in Paris?' It's there, but you won't find it in good deeds. The Guardian, May 17 2002 (when asked if he worried Ewan's celebrity would overwhelm the small film) Not at all; Ewan was ideal for it. He really got the character, and he was a joy to work with. If anything, he got less attention than most of the other people because he was so good. I actually got a phone call from him the other day saying how much he'd enjoyed it. The Glasgow Herald, August 22 2002 I think that people tend to associate Ewan McGregor with younger characters, but the audience will see in Young Adam Ewan playing a more mature character which is more interesting. It is a development from his other roles. Erasing Clouds, January 2003 (on Ewan's sex scene with Emily Mortimer) There is sex and violence in there, and the two are kind of linked. They all went into the whole sexual side very much with their eyes open and as fine actors, and we’ve got some good stuff. They weren’t spanking very hard. The Scotsman, February 23 2002 (thanks Claude) (Ewan is) one of the few significant British stars. The Scotsman, May 4 2003 (thank you Claude) (about funding problems and filming delays) All the cast stayed in and supported it. Ewan's been very loyal to the whole thing. The Herald, May 19 2003 I think he was very pleased to be working at home on a film that has adult morality and all of those kind of things and something that allowed him to do some acting against real people rather than a blue screen. He was a great supporter of the project all the way through and fantastic to work with. Unreel, May 2003 (thank you Karen) I think Ewan McGregor fans are going to see something a bit different. I think it's his first proper 'man' role. He'll probably be offended by me saying this but I think there's a difference from what he's done before. It's an adult film and it's got an adult complexity to it. Sunday Herald, May 25 2003 Ewan was the obvious man for the job. There’s something very exciting and mercurial about him, and it was a type of role that he hadn’t played before, a more grown up role. I needed a powerful actor who was going to give a degree of sympathy to the character. Ewan was very bold about not making attempts to soften the character, but there is something within him that still draws you in. Sunday Herald, July 27 2003 (thank you Specs) Brenda Maddox (author Nora) Mr. McGregor turns out to be more than a passable Joyce. He is dapper and graceful and, like Joyce, he has charm. His educated Dublin accent sounds authentic. A fine actor, a graduate of London's Guildhall Drama School, he can do Geordie, Cockney, Shakespearean or whatever a role demands. New York Times, August 8 1999 (describing the Irish premiere