CORKMAN Jonathan Rhys Meyers is in Ireland shooting the third series of his Showtime series The Tudors, but it can't be all work and no play when you're back on home turf, right?

JRM and his body double on the hit show have been doing the rounds in Dingle, Co. Kerry, according to the Sunday World. As the day job will soon commence, he thought it'd be a good idea to blow off some steam before the cameras roll.

"His double is a guy named David Cokely, and he's even more beautiful than Jonathan," said the always present "source" in such pieces of gossip. "The two have gotten really close during the past two series of The Tudors and love to be together."

Close as in good buddies and nothing more, though. JRM is apparently still hot and heavy with his English girlfriend Reena Hammer, who'll undoubtedly be popping up on the set from time to time.

Though the 30-year-old actor has made a big name for himself playing a British king, he says he really has no time for the British monarchy.

"My nationality and patriotism to my own country forbid my monarchal leanings," he says. "I'm afraid history must dictate my non-support for the monarchy."

Not that he'd turn down a coveted acting award for his widely lauded portrayal of King Henry VIII. JRM says that he loves going to all the award shows, and loves being nominated for his work - such a refreshing cry from all the posers out there who say otherwise.

"I really like being nominated for awards, I have to admit. I really, really enjoy it!" he says.

Someone give this man an Emmy - or at least a nomination. At least we'd be assured of a smile on the red carpet.