Pitt named 'most powerful actor'

In July Angelina Jolie gave birth to twins

Hollywood star Brad Pitt has been named the world's most powerful actor in the Guinness World Records 2009 book, which is released next week.

His partner Angelina Jolie has won the title of most powerful actress toppling Pitt's ex-wife Jennifer Aniston.

Samuel L Jackson has set a new world record for the highest grossing actor with earnings reaching nearly $4bn (£2.2 billion).

Last year's Transformers film is the most downloaded movie.

Blockbuster hits

According to the record book Tim Burton and Johnny Depp have become the most lucrative movie partnership ever formed.

The director and actor duo have made five blockbuster hits, including the 1990 movie Edward Scissorhands, netting $287m (£157m).

British actors Hugh Laurie and Christopher Lee have had their status as top Hollywood stars confirmed.

Samuel L Jackson has starred in Pulp Fiction and Jackie Brown

Veteran actor Lee has been crowned the most connected living actor.

The 86-year-old, who has been made a CBE, was listed in the 2001 record book as the star with the most screen appearances to his name - after playing about 300 film and TV roles.

He is best-known for playing monstrous roles opposite Peter Cushing in the Hammer horror films.

Laurie has seen his American hospital drama series House shoot to the top of the ratings and take the crown of most popular TV show.

The 49-year-old star has recently signed a new four-year deal to play grumpy doctor Gregory House, which has made him one of the highest paid actors in America.

The latest list of record-breaking achievements goes on sale on 17 September.