Theron inspired by Richard Branson

Rex Features

Charlize Theron has confessed that she is in awe of Sir Richard Branson and would love to "live his life".

The actress said at a fundraiser for his charity Virgin Unite: "He's got to be that guy that we all just secretly want to live his life.

"Even if it's just for a week, I mean wouldn't that be incredible? If you had to pick one person, he would be the guy for me, I would want to be him for a week."

Branson is currently attempting an eastward record crossing of the Atlantic in his sloop Virgin Money.

According to The Press Association, Theron went on to describe the entrepreneur as an "inspiration". She said: "I think we want to surround ourselves with people who inspire you and push you and this guy does that on a level that is out of control."