Nigel Havers insists ‘bollocks’ is not a swear word
Bollocks, insists Nigel Havers, is not a swear word. This clarification comes amid his promotional efforts for his speaking tour Nigel Havers Talking B*ll*cks, reports BritPanorama.
During a recent appearance on the Jeremy Vine Show, Havers recounted encountering resistance to the title of his show, particularly from Ann Widdecombe, who expressed discomfort with it. “People get so hot on the collar,” he protested, adding that the Speaker of the House of Commons had confirmed there was nothing inappropriate about the term. Havers’ light-hearted comment, “Good job I didn’t call it Nigel Havers Talking F**king Bollocks,” captures his irreverent approach to the situation.
At the Ivy Club in London, Havers, now 74, showcased his dapper style and unyielding charm. Leaning casually in his seat, he reflects on his career, which began with his role as Lord Andrew Lindsay in the 1981 film Chariots of Fire. Despite the passage of time, he maintains a youthful appearance and a buoyant spirit. “I haven’t changed at all,” he noted, emphasizing the value of retrospective reflection on his extensive career.
Havers aims to share behind-the-scenes tales akin to those exchanged among actors on set. He commented on the cultural differences between British and American actors, expressing dismay at the solitary nature of American filming, where actors often remain segregated in preparation for scenes. “In England you’ll find all the actors together having fun,” he explained, highlighting the collaborative nature of British theatre.
Despite the light-heartedness of his show title, Havers acknowledges the challenges within the acting profession. “You can’t take it seriously,” he remarked, referencing the dismissive attitude some have toward it. He added that some of his compatriots might have more reverent views, but he prefers to sidestep pretentiousness.
Characterizing himself as a “letterbox actor,” Havers remains open to a wide array of roles. With an extensive career spanning various genres, he has played an assortment of characters ranging from heroes to villains. His casual acceptance of diverse scripts reflects his desire to stay engaged in the craft. “No actor ever uses the word resting,” he stated, dismissing the notion that one might take a break from the profession.
Recent roles and projects have kept Havers in the public eye. He portrayed his own grandfather, Sir Cecil Havers, in the ITV drama A Cruel Love, focusing on the controversial trial of Ruth Ellis. Reflecting on his familial background, Havers reminisces about his glamorous upbringing, where his father’s legal career intersected with the world of entertainment, including defending The Rolling Stones in a high-profile drug case.
Havers’ thoughts extend to contemporary politics as well. He expressed disillusionment with the current political climate, critiquing the ongoing discourse surrounding resignation calls and the general state of affairs. “It’s a dirty business,” he remarked, underscoring a broader frustration with political engagements.
In personal reflections, Havers cherishes the balance he maintains between his career and personal life. He values friendships and familial connections, viewing his work as merely one facet of his existence rather than the entirety of it. “I think I have a real life,” he concluded, revealing a perspective grounded in contentment derived from experiences off the screen.
Nigel Havers Talking B*ll*cks will be touring the UK throughout 2026.
