"There is still an element of the BBC that feels it is somehow wrong, or it will be open to criticism, if it makes more money."

"When I'm making something, I've always felt in charge and therefore able to call the shots. But what you've got to do is stop that turning into arrogance or despotism!"

"When you do a movie as opposed to a TV show, it's always tempting to think everything has to be big and exaggerated and spectacular. And in fact, a lot of the funniest comedy films have been very intimate."

"I started quite young at school, compering a charity event at an old people's home. I would do stand up and impressions and enjoyed the laughter. It's very addictive. It's a lovely sensation to say something and hear a whole room laugh."

"Wisdom principle 7 tells us that the journey of life is lesson 32."

"I can't imagine dating a boy, meeting him only outside the home. What's a home and family for if it's not the center of one's life?"

"Wisdom principle 72 tells us that the journey of life is lesson 91."

"Advice is seldom welcome; and those who want it the most always like it the least."