Winslet to take time off from acting

Kate Winslet

Titanic star Kate Winslet has announced her departure from show business - for the next year, at least.

The mother of two told UK newspaper the Daily Mail she will take a year off film-making to concentrate on being a full time mother and watch her children grow.

Winslet, who turned 31 yesterday, made the decision after playing an emotionally dysfunctional mother in the film Little Children.

"It was very trying to play a mother who basically couldn't feel close to or look after the needs of her child.

"It reminded me how much I need my own children," said Winslet.

The four-time Oscar nominated actress has made three films this year and said she was not concerned about the effect her decision would have on her career.

"I've done enough good work in my career not to be worried or torn about not working," she told the Daily Mail.

Winslet has two children, five-year-old Mia from her first marriage to Jim Threapleton, and two-year-old Joe with current husband, director Sam Mendes.

Little Children will be released in cinemas later this year.

- NZHERALD STAFF