Sigourney Weaver's beauty insecurity

Sigourney Weaver has never been "babe material". Sigourney Weaver. The 59-year-old actress - who achieved cult sex symbol status with her performances in the 'Alien' movies - is convinced she has landed more interesting film roles because of her unconventional looks. EPA/FRANTZESCO KANGARIS

Sigourney Weaver. The 59-year-old actress - who achieved cult sex symbol status with her performances in the 'Alien' movies - is convinced she has landed more interesting film roles because of her unconventional looks. EPA/FRANTZESCO KANGARISThe 59-year-old actress - who achieved cult sex symbol status with her performances in the 'Alien' movies - is convinced she has landed more interesting film roles because of her unconventional looks.She said: "I think I was lucky because I have always played these odd women who didn't fit in. I think if you are used to playing a babe, it's much tougher to make the transition to other roles. I guess I was lucky that I wasn't babe material."Sigourney also revealed it was her shy disposition as a child which inspired her to break into acting, because it enabled her to escape from her own life.She added to Britain's Independent newspaper: "I think a lot of shy people become actors, because we are more comfortable playing other people than being ourselves. But I'm actually surprised I ever had the chutzpah to do it!"Earlier this year, Sigourney - who can next be seen in 'Girl in the Park' - revealed her strict English mother used to tell her she was "plain" when she was growing up. She said: "I had an English mother who was always trying to make sure I wouldn't be conceited, to the point where I had a real inferiority complex."I would say, 'Mummy am I pretty?' and she would say, 'Well no, you're plain dear, but never mind.' I thought, 'Gosh, if my mother doesn't think I'm pretty, I had better crawl under the sofa.' "