Cuba Gooding Jr: 'I want to go on a night out with Obama'

Cuba Gooding Jr gives dad dancing a good name.

The actor, 50, and father of three, is currently making his West End debut in the musical Chicago, playing Billy Flynn. “My back aches a little in the mornings these days after rehearsals,” says Jr. “When I was young I could work out all day. Steam rooms have saved me over the past two months in London.” What else does he have in his locker?

Who’s your hero?

A football coach I had as a kid, Coach Hooks. He taught me how to look after myself, from personal fitness to hygiene and good manners, like always saying good morning.

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Who would most like to go on a night out with?

President Obama. I want to pick his brains about how he handled the pressures of both leading the free world and finding time for himself.

Superpower you’d like?

To fly. Soaring over vast lands has been a dream of mine.

Strangest thing a fan has sent you?

The pictures they send of me are creative — you imagine it, I’ve been sent it. Yes, that means nudity.

Last time you cried?

I cry every day. In my job it’s an occupational hazard. Actors are emotional instruments.

First memory?

Playing in the snow as a kid. I was born in the Bronx housing projects in New York. I live in Los Angeles now, where it never snows.

Tell us a joke...

Why is six afraid of seven? Because seven ate nine.

If you weren’t an actor you’d be...

A Niagara Falls tour guide, because I’m a people kind of guy.

A fact you learnt this week?

How to save a Word document. I had to call my two boys to work out what keys to hit.