MACAULAY CULKIN has returned triumphant to acting after a six-year break, to take his first stage role in London's West End.

The 20-year-old actor - who shot to fame a decade ago as the star of HOME ALONE - stars as a shy student seduced by his teacher, played bny French film star IRENE JACOB, in MADAME MELVILLE.

Culkin's performance won the praise of the audience at London's VAUDEVILLE THEATRE, which included comic DAVID BADDIEL and film director MICHAEL WINNER. Baddiel says, "He could really do it. I enjoyed it. But he hasn't changed as much as I thought he would, considering as he's gone through puberty. "I kept expecting him to clasp his hands to the side of his face and scream like he did in Home Alone." Winner adds, "I thought Culkin was very good. He was just right for the part. It's a certain type of American introspective play, but he was excellent - he had great charm, the audience liked him and he seemed to like the audience."

The actor had three curtain calls from the audience, coming back sheepishly for his final bow and looking relieved the opening night was over. (RGS/WNWCAN/NFA)

Source: WENN