Is an Oscars triumph coming for Bill Nighy on his first nomination?

After crashing out of school with just two O-levels, Bill Nighy was turned down for a job at his local newspaper, the Croydon Advertiser.

Journalism’s loss was acting’s gain and over the past 50 years the 73-year-old star of stage and screen has become a national treasure, winning a slew of awards. Yesterday he received his first Oscar recognition, with a nomination for best actor for his portrayal of a reserved civil servant in the acclaimed drama Living.

In postwar London, Nighy’s character endeavours to find meaning in his life after he is diagnosed with terminal cancer.

“Everyone associated with Living is honoured by the academy’s nomination and grateful for the spotlight it throws upon the film,” Nighy said. “We hope it will encourage