Boxing helps Hugh Laurie cope with the House work

At 48, it takes a lot of work to hang on to your reputation as television's sexiest man.

Hugh Laurie, unlikely heartthrob and star of US TV series House, has resorted to boxing to keep fit.

Laurie, who moved to LA from Britain nearly four years ago to play the drama's eponymous grumpy doctor, was back for his weekly session in the gym, face red and brow furrowed as he performed dozens of sit-ups.

Perhaps the former star of comedies such as Blackadder and A Bit of Fry and Laurie is feeling the pressure of his sexiest man title, bestowed by America's influential TV Guide.

Whispers of a mid-life crisis are circulating in Hollywood – encouraged by his decision to buy a bright orange vintage Porsche 911.

"He goes to a boxing class at least once a week near his home and is by far the oldest in a group of about 12," said a source.

"He is usually quite morose but cheers up enormously during his boxing sessions."

The actor, who has won two Golden Globes for House, has spoken of the toll of his tough work schedule – and the fact that he so rarely sees his wife Jo, 51, and their three children, who have remained at the family's London home.

One of the few things which lifts his mood is boxing.

"It is fascinating," he said. "I swank around thinking I am a big cheese, but you do not feel like that when you are in the ring with a chap who knows what he is doing."

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Just a few more: Laurie's face reveals the pain as he works on a session of sit-ups