Christopher Eccleston thinks his accent has cost him acting work.

Christopher Eccleston

Christopher Eccleston

The 54-year-old star - who appeared as Doctor Who in 2005 - has claimed that his broad northern accent and a class prejudice at the BBC cost him a role in the 'Hollow Crown' TV series.

The Salford-born star explained: "There's an assumption being made about my accent and background."

Christopher was bemused at being snubbed by the BBC, because he assumed that his profile would have virtually guaranteed him an audition.

He told the Radio Times: "Without sounding arrogant, I'm a high-profile actor and didn't get a call - didn't get an audition."

Christopher hinted that his accent and background worked against him when it came to the role.

The British star said: "Why didn't somebody like myself get offered a deal?"

Christopher also blasted the lack of diversity in the Royal Shakespeare Company.

He said: "My hackles rise because I just see a sea of white faces. This place has got to have a revolution. No more English heritage."

Meanwhile, Christopher recently admitted he hated starring in 'G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra' and 'Thor: The Dark World'.

The actor appeared as James McCullen in the Stephen Sommers-directed thriller and Malekith in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film, and although both productions were commercial successes, Christopher wanted to "cut his throat".

He said: "Working on something like 'G.I. Joe' was horrendous.

"I wanted to cut my throat every day. And 'Thor'? Just a gun in your mouth. 'Gone in 60 Seconds' was a good experience.

"Nic Cage is a gentleman and fantastic actor. But 'G.I. Joe' and 'Thor' were ... I really paid for being a whore those times."