The Bank Job and The Italian Job.

Jason Statham Childhood

Jason Statham was born in Shirebrook, England, to a lounge singer and dressmaker who ended up running a black marketoperation.

Although Statham initially followed his parents' creative paths, mastering art of street theatre, he also developed an interest in sports; in particular, diving. In 1992, Statham finished 12th in the World Championships. He was a member of Britain's diving squad for 12 years. He also played football for his local Grammar School.

Jason Statham: Modelling Career

Whilst he was training at the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre in London, Statham was spotted by a model agency scout. He became a model for the clothing brand French Connection. It was around this time that Statham was introduced to the film director Guy Ritchie.

Jason Statham: Acting Career

Guy Ritchie cast Statham in the role of Bacon in his 1998 film Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels after hearing about Statham's family story. The film was a hit, both with cinema audiences and with film critics. In 2000, Ritchie cast Statham again, this time in the 2000 film Snatch. Amongst the other actors to feature in the film were Brad Pitt, Benicio Del Toro and Dennis Farina.

The success of the two films earned Jason Statham a passage to Hollywood. In 2001, he appeared in two US films, Ghosts of Mars and The One. The offers continued to reach Statham and the next year, he played the role of the driver Frank Martin in The Transporter. His martial arts training proved invaluable in the filming of the movie, as he was able to perform most of his own stunts. The sequel The Transporter 2 was released in 2005.

Statham's other notable supporting roles include films such as the remake of the Italian Job (2003) and 2004's Cellular. He also had a bit part in Collateral, starring Tom Cruise. In 2006, he took the lead role in Crank. In an interview, he described the film Crank as being like his own life.

Although Guy Ritchie's career had fallen from grace since Statham's first two appearances for him, the actor appeared in his 2005 film Revolver. In 2008, he featured in Death Race.

Jason Statham: Personal Life

Jason Statham dated Kelly Brook for seven years. Brook is an English model and TV presenter. She spilt with Statham when she met the actor Billy Zane on set. In 2005, Statham briefly dated Sophie Monk, former singer of the band Bardot.