Michael Sheen shares memories of meeting Burton and Taylor
Speaking at yesterday's unveiling, Michael Sheen reminisced about a visit by Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor to the village where he grew up.
"It was the same beach that I built my boyhood sandcastles and learnt to flailingly swim... it was that beach that one legendary day Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor descended like gods from Olympus... in a helicopter!"
"They stepped out swathed in luxurious fur coats - it was the Seventies - and walked among us for too short a time".
Richard Burton star: Michael Sheen speaks at Hollywood ceremony
Maria Burton (right) and Michael Sheen at today's ceremony Credit: Lionel Hahn/PA WireMaria Burton, who was adopted by Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor Credit: Lionel Hahn/PA Wire
It follows a campaign by the Western Mail newspaper, led by Welsh business academic Professor Dylan Jones-Evans.
I am sure the people of Wales will be thrilled that he is receiving this accolade on the most special day for the Welsh nation, St David's Day. This public recognition for Richard Burton's body of work will not only help raise the profile of Wales internationally, but will also help to raise funds to provide scholarships in the legendary actor's name to support young Welsh talent at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama.