(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Dustin Hoffman found the break between shooting the most recent Focker movies a blessed relief.

The 73-year-old actor portrays Bernie Focker in the hugely popular comedy franchise which also stars Robert De Niro, Ben Stiller, Blythe Danner and Teri Polo.

There was a six-year break between 2004s Meet the Fockers and this years Little Fockers, and Dustin had no qualms with the long pause.

"I kind of like the blessed relief of not having to do another Fockers for six years," he laughed.

The latest instalment sees Roberts alpha-male character Jack Byrnes testing his son-in-law, male nurse Greg Focker played by Ben to see whether he makes a suitable man-of-the-house.

Ben insists Robert was also happy to take a break from the franchise, joking that he didnt get the impression his co-star had missed him. The actor feels he and Robert have formed a bond over the years though, and teased that he finally feels comfortable enough to give the Hollywood icon a nickname.

"He didn't miss me," Ben told MTV of Robert.

"For me, it's always exciting to come to work with Mr. De Niro. I feel like after 10 years I finally feel OK calling you 'Bob'. I finally feel like I'm not forcing that."

Ben loves working on the comedy franchise primarily because he enjoys the company of all his co-stars so much. The star always looks forward to the chance to catch up with everybody as so much merriment occurs on set.

"It's always great to have a chance to work together, the whole cast, it's always fun to see everybody, he beamed. (C) Cover Media