Ian McShane

[On his character from 'Deadwood'] Ian McShane: This is the most complex character I've ever had. It's a great gig. When you land a part like this, you grab hold of it, and really go to town. I've had a great social life and personal life, and taken whatever's been offered. When something like this comes along, you say, 'Oh, yes, thank you very much.

[On his Father Harry McShane who played to Manchester United] Ian McShane: He was a classic Scottish left winger. Five-foot-seven, and he could run down the field at 90 miles an hour. Later he was a public address announcer for Manchester United at Old Trafford. He used to announce the teams and play the records.

[What sports figure would he like to portray?] Ian McShane: I would have loved to have played Ty Cobb. The film about him was underrated and Tommy Lee Jones did a great job. I love that movie. An irascible, strange and tormented guy who played the game like no one else. But here's another one I'd love to have played that might surprise you: Mickey Mantle. I thought he was amazing.

{on where he had his voice training] Ian McShane: The Royal Academy. They had me put all these things in mouth to try to get rid of my accent.

[Was he uncomfortable with the colorful language on 'Deadwood'] Ian McShane: No, not at all. Totally comfortable. People swear in everyday life. And the words become meaningless themselves after a time. It does get even more colourful, but it's part of it. I mean, it's been around since Chaucer, as Milch talks about himself. Language is language. Especially when he uses the vernacular in the midst of these long, complicated 19th century monologues, because it's almost like Shakespeare in terms of the complexity of the dialogue and the thoughts behind it. So it's a constant surprise, and it's a pleasure to do it.