Cumberbatch's teacher recalls star's 'saucy' audition

Benedict Cumberbatch, who has proved his acting mettle with roles as Alan Turing in "The Imitation Game" and his titular part in the TV show "Sherlock", was an "exceptional talent" even as a teenager, says his former drama teacher.

The actor's teacher Martin Tyrell says opened up about the 38-year-old's talent in an interview to a magazine, reports dailymail.co.uk.

"I remember him auditioning very early on for the part of the saucy maid in a farce. It was a small part, involving a feather duster for about ten minutes, but even then in rehearsal he was strikingly mature.

"He took direction, immediately understood the comic requirements of the part and was very, very funny. You wonder where on earth the understanding comes from," Tyrell told the Radio Times magazine.

However, despite his ability to take on a variety of roles, Tyrell believes that Cumberbatch's private education may have hindered his chances at becoming a successful actor.

"I feel that they are being limited (from playing certain parts) by critics and audiences as a result of what their parents did for them at the age of 13. And that seems to me very unfair," Tyrell said.

"Going to a major independent school is of no importance or value or help at all...I don't think anyone ever bought an education at Harrow in order for their son to become an actor," he added.