The Romantic Gerry Kennady of P. S. I Love You, the Brave King Leonidas of 300, the one and only Gerard Butler turns 42 today! The actor known for his Scottish accent was a trained lawyer before he turned towards acting in mid-90s.

Born in Paisley, Scotland on the 13th of November, 1969, Butler is the youngest of the three children of Margaret and Edward Butler. His acting career began when he was approached in a London coffee shop by actor Steven Berkoff, who gave him a role in a stage production of Coriolanus.

Butler was cast as Ewan McGregor's character Renton in the stage adaptation of Trainspotting. His film debut was as Billy Connolly's younger brother in Mrs. Brown (1997). He started will small roles in productions such as the James Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), followed by a breakthrough work as the lead in Joel Schumacher's 2004 film adaptation of the musical The Phantom of the Opera, after which Butler decided to give up law for acting.

Butler gained worldwide recognition through his portrayal of King Leonidas in the film 300 (2007). Since then, he has appeared in projects including P.S. I Love You (2007), Nim's Island (2008), RocknRolla (2008), The Ugly Truth (2009), Gamer (2009), Law Abiding Citizen (2009), The Bounty Hunter (2010), and as a voice actor in How to Train Your Dragon (2010). His is upcoming ventures are Playing the Field and Movie 43, both set to release in 2012. The blue-eyed actor of Irish descent continues to be a heart throb for many.

FridayMoviez wishes Gerard Butler a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!