Yahoo News Colin Firth becomes a British-Italian duel citizen
Kingsman and Bridget Jones actor Colin Firth may be one of the most British actors on the planet, but as of last week he is officially a dual British-Italian citizen.
Having married Italian film director Livia Guiggioli (now Livia Firth) in 1997, the star has lived in both London and Italy and become fluent in Italian.
In a lengthy statement, Firth explained his reasoning for applying for a dual citizenship:
"A connection with Italy has existed in my family for more than two decades now. I was married there and had two children born in Rome. My wife and I are both extremely proud of our own countries. We feel that we've made a gift of that to each other.
"Our children have been dual citizens since the beginning. We never really thought much about our different passports. But now, with some of the uncertainty around, we thought it sensible that we should all get the same. Livia is applying for a British passport.
"I will always be extremely British (you only have to look at or listen to me). Britain is our home and we love it here. Despite the enticements of my profession to relocate to more remunerative climes, I've always chosen to base my career out of the UK and pay my taxes here. That hasn't changed.
"I married into Italy (and anyone will tell you when you marry an Italian you don't just marry one person; you marry a family and perhaps an entire country…). Like almost everybody I have a passionate love of Italy and joining my wife and kids in being dual citizens will be a huge privilege."
Meanwhile, Colin has also been telling Digital Spy recently how he doesn't have plans to be the new Liam Neeson, despite his action role in Kingsman sequel The Golden Circle.
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