Rupert Everett

British-born Rupert Everett grew up in privileged circumstances, but the wry, sometimes arrogant intellectual was a rebel from the very beginning. At the age of 7, he was placed into the care of Benedictine monks at Ampleforth College.

In 1984, Everett successfully filmed a lead role in Another Country, which he had performed earlier on stage. He shot to international attention, becoming one of England's hottest new stars. But, again, the wickedly sharp and suave rebel doused his own fire by clashing with the press and even with his own fans. In 1989, Everett openly declared his homosexuality -- an announcement that could have mortally wounded his film career. Instead, over time, it seems to have had the opposite effect.

Residing in London, New York, Paris & Miami, he bought a home in Los Angeles for his dog's sake. His black Lab, Moise, was suffering from painful arthritis, so the actor relocated to the city in order for his beloved pet to heal. Everett even turned down a role on the London stage because it meant having to have his dog quarantined for six months.

He also showed his musical talents on two remakes: singing backup on Madonna's remake of "American Pie" and by dueting with Brit pop star Robbie Williams on a version of the classic "They Can't Take That Away from Me".

Rupert is here today to talk about his experiences in life, love and work in his thrilling autobiography Red Carpets and Other Banana Skins.