How did you first get involved with the Austin Powers franchise?

Well the way that usually happens: you're sent a script and if it appeals to you, you meet the powers involved. Then, of course, "Austin Powers" was an unknown quantity, it was just a script. I thought there was something delicious about it, and having seen Mike Myers work on Saturday Night Live, I just had a hunch.

I met with Jay Roach, who then was a first-time director. I liked him enormously. I think there's this great thing about working with first-time directors: they've put so much passion and intensity into the work. Lo and behold, it was a big success and the follow-up, "The Spy Who Shagged Me", was a huge success.

What do you think is the appeal of Austin Powers?

I once tried to analyse it, and I think his appeal is across the board - to children and adults alike. He's universal. He's basically naughty but very nice. It was a lot of fun.

Did the problems over the title, with the Bond people threatening to sue, put pressure on you?

Not me, but it had an unbelievable effect on Mike, cos there was a character called Goldmember in it. As if he didn't have enough pressure as it was - producing, writing, playing most of the roles. I'm sure it was the last thing he needed, that bit of stress.

Do you think the expectation to succeed has changed the atmosphere on set?

I don't think so. What's happened is that everyone has sort of bonded into a family. That sounds corny, and you hear about this, but it really does seem to be true. I think the feeling comes from the top. There are really nice people involved, like Mike, and especially Jay. He's a marvellously courteous, sweet, dedicated man, and he's part of the success of it. It's all very civilised. I've been in movies where there have been monsters cracking whips, and it's awful because it affects everyone.

So did your salary double with the first sequel, and triple with the second one?

Ha, ha! Dream on. They've been... generous, yes.