LOS ANGELES, Oct 14, (Agencies): Award-winning actor Sir Michael Caine has officially announced his retirement from acting after an illustrious seven-decade career in which he appeared in over 160 films. His final movie, "The Great Escaper," released on October 6th, marks the end of an era for the beloved actor, who decided to retire at the age of 90.

In his last film, Sir Michael stars alongside the late Glenda Jackson and portrays the real-life Second World War veteran Bernie Jordan, who escapes from a care home to attend D-Day celebrations in France. Reflecting on his decision to retire, Sir Michael candidly shared his thoughts on BBC Radio 4's Today program, saying, "I keep saying I'm going to retire. Well, I am now. I've figured, I've had a picture where I've played the lead and had incredible reviews... what am I going to do that will beat this?"

Acknowledging the changing landscape of the film industry, he humorously added, "The only parts I'm liable to get now are 90-year-old men. Or maybe 85. They're not going to be the lead. You don't have leading men at 90; you're going to have young, handsome boys and girls. So, I thought, I might as well leave with all this."

This decision follows an earlier statement in 2021 when Sir Michael expressed his inclination to step back from acting, citing a spine problem that affected his mobility and the lack of acting offers in recent years. He initially anticipated that his role in "Best Sellers," alongside Aubrey Plaza, would be his final film. However, he later accepted the part in "The Great Escaper," a role he had turned down three times.

Additionally, the multi-talented actor is set to release his debut novel, "Deadly Game," a month from the time of his retirement announcement. In June, he shared his excitement about fulfilling a long-standing ambition, stating, "It's been my ambition for years to write a thriller. It's the genre I most love to read, and I've really got a buzz out of working on Deadly Game and teaming up with Hodder once again to publish it. I hope readers enjoy getting to know Harry Taylor as much as I did." The novel delves into the adventures of DCI Harry Taylor, a detective unburdened by red tape or political reputation.