Drink-driving arrest for Shepard

Shepard told officers he was heading home to Kentucky

American actor and playwright Sam Shepard has been arrested for allegedly drinking and driving in Illinois.

He was also accused of speeding, with police saying he was driving at 46mph (74km/h) in a 30mph (48km/h) area.

The 65-year-old's blood alcohol level was twice the legal limit when he was stopped in the town of Normal, Lt Mark Kotte of the local police force added.

The actor, who was Oscar-nominated for The Right Stuff in 1984, said he had been at a pub in a nearby town.

He said he was travelling from Minnesota back to his home in Kentucky.

Shepard was released on bail by police but it was not clear when he must report back to them.

The star, whose long-term partner is actress Jessica Lange, has also appeared in films such as Blackhawk Down and Paris, Texas.