There was also good news for Daniel Craig. Casino Royale, which is in 19th place in the US chart, added £1.8 million pounds in takings making its US gross 162.5 million dollars, beating Die Another Day as the highest grossing Bond film in the US, according to Empire.

Ricky’s ’proud’ of new film  - Dec 24 2006
Funnyman Ricky Gervais has been raving about his new film Night At The Museum, saying he’s "very proud" to have been involved.

The star plays museum director Dr McPhee in the adventure comedy, which is set in a museum where the exhibits come to life during the night.

He co-stars with a raft of big names, including Ben Stiller, Robin Williams and Mickey Rooney.

"It’s just a joy to be able to rave about it," he told the Daily Mirror. "There’s excitement and comedy, all heart but without the schmaltz. I’m very proud to have been part of it."

The 45-year-old is offered plenty of movie parts but says he’s careful about choosing the right projects.

"I’ve been offered film roles since the second episode of The Office and before now I’d always resisted it," he said.

"I still think of myself as a writer and director first, but I’m in a fortunate position to be able to cherry pick what I do."

Ricky bagged the role after palling up with Ben Stiller on the set of Extras, his follow-up to The Office.

"A little while after that he emailed me asking if I’d like to return the favour."

Night At The Museum hits cinemas on Boxing Day.

Ricky: ’I’m not funniest man in UK’ - Dec 20 2006
Comic Ricky Gervais has insisted he isn’t the funniest man in Britain.

The TV funnyman, who created and starred in The Office and Extras, believes Borat actor Sacha Baron Cohen beats him hands down.

According to The Sun, Ricky said: "Sacha is just a different class. He is so brave. I just couldn’t do what he does.

"Plus I wouldn’t want the death threats! He’s exposing prejudice and, of course, it is very, very funny."

Sacha, 35, has been nominated for Emmys, Baftas and a Golden Globe for his hilarious performances.

But Ricky, 45, shouldn’t feel too glum about Sacha’s talent - he’s won two Golden Globes, six Baftas and one Emmy.

He is also set to make his big screen debut later this week in Ben Stiller’s Night At The Museum.

"I wasn’t certain it was the right thing to do but the more I said no, the more the money went up," Ricky said.

Ricky buys £2.5m mansion - Oct 10, 2020
It’s a far cry from Slough... Ricky Gervais has splashed out more than £2.5 million on a mansion in north London.  The four-bed, three-bathroom house is slap bang in the middle of the celebrity heartlands, according to The Sun.

In fact Ricky’s good mate Jonathan Ross is just a step away - and the pair are embracing the trappings of their luxury lifestyle.  Ricky said: "It’s near Jonathan’s. I’ve got a pool planned and he’s got a miniature golf course - so we’re both well sorted."

A source told the newspaper: "Ricky has been living right in the heart of London’s West End for years. He wanted to get a place which is a little more secluded and not so hectic."