A COLORFUL CHARACTER

While Statham has carved out a successful career playing assorted rogues and villains (credits include "Snatch" opposite Brad Pitt, "The Longest Yard," "The One" and "Crank") his own life story is every bit as colorful. He's been a street-corner "salesman," a model, and a high-board diver.

"I was the (British) national champion, and I placed 12th in the world, but I never went to the Olympics like some reports said. It's a very intense training, and it really taught me discipline and focus," Statham said.

Statham said he feels pigeon-holed doing action movies again and again. Yet, action scripts and rogue characters are most often what come his way.

"Let's face it, it's a lucrative market, and it's playing to my strengths. Who else is there now? There's Jackie Chan and Jet Li," he said.

Statham is quick to deny that he ever suggested aging action stars such as Sylvester Stallone should retire, as was widely reported a few months ago.

"I've never said that, and I think he's great," Statham said. "He's one of my bloody heroes. I love all his stuff, and the fact that he can still do it in his 60s is amazing."

Statham, who likes to box and play chess in his spare time, is currently shooting "Transporter 3."

"It's back to fast cars and fast women," he sighs. "But I'm having a lot of fun doing it."