From discus to film, Harting eyes acting career

Germany's towering three-time world champion Robert Harting has said he is hoping to go from discus to film as he eyes a future career as an actor. The 28-year-old won discus gold at Moscow's world athletics championships for the third successive time after taking the title at both Berlin 2009 and Daegu in 2011. At 6ft 7ins (2.01m), muscle-man Harting is an imposing figure who loves to celebrate his track and field triumphs by tearing off his athletics vest. Having been crowned Olympic champion at London 2012, he has achieved everything his sport has to offer, but hopes his friendship with German actor Til Schweiger could see him appear in cinemas soon. Schweiger is one of Germany's top actors and is best known for his role in Quentin Tarantino's 2009 blockbuster 'Inglourious Basterds'. "Acting excites me. I met Til Schweiger a few times and have said 'If you're looking for an action hero, definitely let me know', I can imagine being an option in the future," Harting, who has been nicknamed "Lord of the Rings" in Germany, told daily newspaper Bild. Harting, who threw 69.11m on Tuesday to win the world title in Moscow, said he does not mind playing either the hero or a bad guy in any future fim. "The main thing is that it must suit my personality, it should be something with action and power and a challenging character, whether it's a hero or a villain, I don't care." Harting said he has no interest in cameo roles and wants to learn the skills of the profession from Schweiger. "I have a lot of respect for the job. Acting is not easy," said the Berliner. "It would be great if he could be my coach and teach me the most important aspects of acting." And the 50-year-old Schweiger said he is open to the idea: "He's definitely a great guy, I'd trust him to pull if off," the actor said of Harting. Source: AFP