The 69-year-old actor has announced he is giving up acting after being diagnosed with the degenerative nervous system disorder last autumn, thanking fans for his "wonderful career" and saying he hopes to spend
more time with his family.

The `Who Framed Roger Rabbit?` star`s spokesperson has issued a statement saying: "He wishes to thank all the great and brilliant people he has worked with over the years, and all of his fans who have supported him during a wonderful career.

"Bob is now looking forward to his retirement with his family, and would greatly appreciate that his privacy be respected at this time."

The beloved British actor`s career has spanned four decades during which time he appeared in almost 80 films.

He is best known for his role as Smee in Steven Spielberg`s `Hook` and as P.I. Eddie Valiant in `Who Framed Roger Rabbit?`.

He was awarded a Golden Globe for best actor, a Bafta and an Academy Award nomination for his standout performance in `Mona Lisa`.

Bob`s final role sees him star opposite Kristen Stewart as one of the seven dwarves in `Snow White And The Huntsman`.
sections: Celebrities