Bettany: I'm cheaper than Jude Law

Actor Paul Bettany cites fellow Brit Jude Law as the reason he's securing major Hollywood roles - because he looks similar to the Cold Mountain star but costs less.

The 33-year-old husband of actress Jennifer Connelly believes he's cast by directors who turn to him when Law proves too expensive for a film's budget.

But the Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World star refuses to let the trend offend him - because he knows one day studios will be searching for cheaper version of Paul Bettany.

He says: "I've been the beneficiary of producers saying: 'Get me that guy who looks like Jude Law but is cheaper. What's his name? - Paul Bettany?' And then they go, 'Get me Paul Bettany.'

"But soon they'll be saying, 'Actually, get me the guy who looks like Paul Bettany but is cheaper.'"