Robbins: Actors do not inspire violence

Actor Tim Robbins is furious Hollywood stars are constantly blamed for glamorising violence and crime.

The Shawshank Redemption star insists actors are always used as scape- goats for tragedies like 1999's tragic shooting in Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado.

But he believes the real culprits are politicians, for legitimising aggression by declaring war on countries like Iraq.

He complains to Britain's Empire magazine: "Hollywood has always been a popular target. I remember when the Columbine shootings happened. Clinton criticised Hollywood for contributing to this tragedy.

"This, as we were dropping bombs over Kosovo. Could the violent actions of our leaders contribute somewhat to the violent fantasies of our teenagers? Or is it all just Hollywood rock 'n' roll?"