Will Smith braved the cold to meet crowds of fans at the UK premiere of his new blockbuster, I Am Legend.

The 39-year-old actor, who plays the only survivor of a virus that wipes out New York, waved to the fans before making his way up to the balcony of the Odeon Leicester Square.

Gallery: See more pictures from the premiere here

He told them: "I'm very proud of this film, it's been very successful in the United States, so I hope you guys like it, and I think you will.

"I just wanted to say thank you very much - it's cold out here but you've made my heart feel warm - thank you."

I Am Legend's opening weekend in US cinemas notched up a personal best for the actor, who spends much of the film's running time alone on screen. It achieved an estimated 76.5 million dollars (£38.25 million).

Smith's daughter Willow co-stars in flashback scenes in the movie, and the actor was keen to emphasise his enthusiasm that his children with wife Jade Pinkett-Smith are carrying on the family tradition.

"It was beautiful working with my daughter," he said. "She's very into acting and performing, so any time your kids want to do what you do, it's a great experience as a father."

Asked whether he would consider following other American actors, like Micky Rooney and Christian Slater, on to the West End stage, he said: "You know, I've always thought about it, but it's something you have got to take seriously.

"I have no ego or arrogance about being able to get on stage, that's a real job.

"You have got to be focused and I would have to approach it with the same vigour and energy."

The film opens in UK cinemas on Boxing Day.