Eddie Redmayne has given an insight into his school days with Prince William, and revealed that the pair used to play rugby together. The actor, who is currently in the spotlight for his recent film The Theory of Everything, even went as far as to say that he felt "sorry" for the British royal. "We were on the same rugby team at Eton College," Eddie, 33, told Glamour. "He's a wonderful man." "I always felt slightly sorry for him because everyone wanted to tackle the future king of England. He took all the hits."
Eddie Redmayne has been nominated for Best Actor for his role in The Theory of Everything
The London-born star and William were in the same year at Eton – the prestigious boarding school located in Berkshire, where William's younger brother Prince Harry also attended. While Eddie went on to study history of art at Cambridge – opting for the same degree as William's wife the Duchess of Cambridge – William took up geography at St Andrews. The Prince also played water polo at university and represented the Scottish national universities water polo team at the Celtic Nations tournament in 2004.
Prince William pictured playing rugby at school in 2000
In the same interview, Eddie revealed that he had worked especially hard to land his role as Stephen Hawking in the new biographical drama. "I chased it pretty hard," said Eddie. "I called [the director] James [Marsh], and we met in London. He drank a few coffees; I downed a few pints. As I got more tipsy, I got more effusive about my desire to play this part. I had no idea that there was such an astounding story behind Hawking." His efforts paid off, with Eddie's latest performance earning him critical acclaim as well as BAFTA and Golden Globe nominations for Best Actor.
Hannah Bagshawe and Eddie Redmayne married in December 2014
As awards season looms, Eddie will no doubt have the support of his new wife Hannah Bagshawe, whom he married last month. The pair, who have been together since 2012, tied the knot on 15 December at Babington House in Somerset – the same venue chosen by celebrity couples including Millie Mackintosh and Professor Green, and James Corden and Julia Carey, among others.