A Hollywood star is to have his play performed in the village where he grew up and directed by his mum.

Rupert Friend, well known for his role as a CIA operative in acclaimed political thriller Homeland, as well as Anatomy of a Scandal, Pride and Prejudice, Young Victoria and Wes Anderson's Asteroid City, grew up in Stonesfield.

He attended Marlborough School in Woodstock.

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A prolific actor, he is also a producer, lyricist and writer and his play 'Steve' is set to be performed by the Stonesfield Players in a production directed by his mother Caroline.

Steve is funny, tense and poignant, said Mrs Friend.

“It’s exploring social norms, loneliness, rage - and what it feels like when you just don’t get it."

The language is colourful and strong and not suitable for children.

Katie Saville of Stonesfield Players said: "What people might not know is that he started his career as a member of the Stonesfield Players in the village.

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"He remembers this time with great fondness, taking part in all manner of shows and attending weekly sessions at the Chipping Norton Theatre drama club.

"Caroline Friend is herself a talented actor and experienced director."

Mr Friend, who dated actress Keira Knightley, is married to American athlete and actress Aimee Mullins.

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He was instrumental in saving The White Horse in Stonesfield from potential development last year.

With his celebrity endorsement the campaign to bring the pub into community ownership reached as far as the pages of the New York Times and raised over £450,000.

Steve is on 21, 22 and 23 March at Stonesfield Village Hall. Tickets £12 from Suriya Express or Andrew.tacon@outlook.com or 07795 441986