British film legend Michael Caine, renowned for his roles in movies like "The Italian Job" and "The Dark Knight," has officially announced his retirement from acting. The 90-year-old star confirmed the news during an interview for BBC Radio 4's "Best of Today" podcast on Saturday. Caine stated, "I keep saying I'm going to retire. Well, I am now."
Caine revealed that his latest film, "The Great Escaper," which was released earlier this month, will mark his final acting performance. He expressed his satisfaction with the movie, stating, "I've played the lead and it's got incredible reviews. The only parts I'm going to get now are old men – 90-year-old men, or maybe 85, you know – and I thought well I might as well leave with all this. I've got wonderful reviews. What am I going to do to beat this?"
In "The Great Escaper," Caine stars alongside the late Glenda Jackson, portraying the character of Bernard Jordan. The film tells the story of a 90-year-old who escapes from a care home to attend the 70th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings in France. Reflecting on the experience, Caine said, "We had a great time on the movie and I thought, you know, why not leave now?"
Director Oliver Parker, who worked with Caine on "The Great Escaper," acknowledged the actor's exceptional talent, describing his ability to transform performances. Parker credited Caine's charisma and sheer presence for the impact he has made throughout his career.
Michael Caine's journey in the entertainment industry began on the stage in the early 1950s before making his film debut in 1956. Born Maurice Joseph Micklewhite, Jr., he adopted the name "Caine" from the 1954 film "The Caine Mutiny" and later legally changed it.
Throughout his illustrious career, Caine brought to life a diverse range of characters, including secret agents, playboys, adventurers, schoolteachers, and killers. Notable roles include portraying British spy Harry Palmer in five films, gaining recognition with his performance in 1965's "The Ipcress File." He achieved further success in the 1966 romantic comedy "Alfie," where he played a promiscuous chauffeur.
Caine received his first Academy Award as Best Supporting Actor for his role in Woody Allen's 1986 film "Hannah and Her Sisters." He later earned a second Oscar in the same category for his part in the 1999 film "The Cider House Rules."
Throughout his career, Caine collaborated with renowned actors and directors. He starred alongside Sean Connery in John Huston's 1975 adventure film "The Man Who Would Be King" and portrayed a journalist in Vietnam in the 2002 adaptation of Graham Greene's "The Quiet American." Additionally, Caine made his mark as Alfred Pennyworth, Bruce Wayne's loyal butler, in Christopher Nolan's critically acclaimed 2008 film "The Dark Knight."
In recognition of Caine's contributions to the entertainment industry, he was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1993, followed by a knighthood in 2000.
While retiring from acting, Caine emphasized his passion for writing. Having already starred in around 160 movies, he stated on the podcast, "I always wanted to be a writer." He highlighted the appeal of writing, noting that he doesn't have to wake up early for shoots or work late into the night. With his retirement from acting, Caine plans to focus on his writing career instead.