Standing Still for Jennifer

JENNIFER Connelly states wryly: "I'm the date master."

Apparently, being an Oscar-winning actress doesn't make any woman immune to the challenges of co-ordinating a family.

"We have a really completely improvised schedule," says the petite, dark-haired actress, referring to the NewYork life she shares with husband, British actor Paul Bettany, and their two sons, Stellan, five, and Kai, 11.

"Everymonth is different. Every year is different. It means that I spend a lot of time with the calendar."

Today at least, there is no sign of domestic fatigue. Dressed in a fitted black suit, accessorised with a chunky gold bangle and a collection of delicate silver necklaces, she says she is enjoying the benefits of an unexpected night off.

"I called Paul last night and said, 'You won't believe what I'm doing, it's so scandalous. I'm sitting by myself and reading'," she says laughing.

"I don't get much time to read for pleasure. I went upstairs at 8 o'clock, wrapped up in a blanket, with a book and a cup of tea, like a little old granny. I was so beside myself with excitement."

It's hard to imagine this polished and poised Hollywood star wanting to dive under the duvet for some "me time".

But then, Jennifer is a woman who has spent a lifetime learning how to look the part.

By the age of 11 she had landed her first film role in Sergio Leone's 1984 gangster epic Once UponATime In America.

And she says she is still recognised for film roles she did as a teenager.

"So many people recognise me from Labyrinth. And I think, 'How on earth? I'm sorry, it's 23 years ago'. That's quite funny to me."

But after achieving cult fame for starring alongside David Bowie...