Jude Law has said he is thankful that up and coming actors like Robert Pattinson are “entering the limelight”.

Jude, 37, told German newspaper Sueddeutsche Zeitung that he always found it uncomfortable being the focus of media attention.

“If I have a look around at the moment I feel great relief because finally others are entering the limelight,” he is quoted as saying.

"Men like Robert Pattinson must now play the Adonis. For me it was always a restraint, a restriction."

The actor, who recently appeared as Hamlet on Broadway, said being regarded as "the Adonis" took the emphasis of his acting.

"My goal was always to be recognised as a good actor but no-one was interested in that, simply because society just wants to warm towards your appearance,” he said.

“This is the great blemish of society."

Robert Pattinson has grown into one of Hollywood's biggest names as a result of his role as Edward Cullen in The Twilight Saga.

Robert Pattinson - The New Jude Law?