In St Austell, Cornwall to Eric and Elsie, their only child.
First memory ?
Having mumps when I was four, I remember the pain vividly.
What kind of schoolkid were you ?
Anxious to please, I craved attention and perfroming was a good way of getting it.
What was the naughtiest thing you did as a child ?
Throwing stones at an old lady. It was dreadful and I regret it deeply now.
Did you study at College or University ?
I studied philosophy and history at Southampton University. I acted in drama society productions and had an amazing break when a top agent spotted me and secured me work at the Royal Court Theatre.
What was your first vice ?
Sex and smoking - I started both when I was 15. They go together somehow. Personally I blame Humphrey Bogart films.
Who did you first kiss ?
A wonderful girl called Janice Kneller. She was tremendous. Maybe, I should have stuck with her.
Were you a difficult teenager ?
The most rebellious thing I did was holding a bike for a group of boys while they robbed the locks off public loo's.
What was your first job and wage ?
Working down the clay mine when I was 16. I earned �7.10s a week, which was good money in those days.
What was your worst job ?
Teaching anything and everything in an inner city London school in the late sixties, early seventies.
What was your biggest gamble ?
Becoming an Actor.
What is your greatest achievement ?
My time at the Royal Shakespeare Company - I've spent 11 years there on and off.
Have you ever been on a blind date ?
Yes. In 1984 with a mad Norwegian girl, but she wasn't interested in me, she wanted Jim Bergerac.
What's the most romantic thing you've ever done ?
Getting married to my wife, Cathy at a place called Pebworth in Warwickshire.
Who do you find sexy ?
I find lots of different Actresses sexy, but I can't say because I might have to work with them in the future.
What turns you on ?
Great Acting. Alan Howard is one of my favourite actors.
What has been your most embarassing moment ?
Trying to crack a joke with Princess Anne. It fell flat and taught me an important lesson - never joke with your superiors.
What is your greatest fear ?
Losing loved one's.
What's the secret of a happy life ?
Knowing Les Dawson.
Q and A session with John Nettles copyright 'TV Quick' magazine.