APOLLO 13 star Bill Paxton is standing apart from the majority of his Hollywood counterparts - by declaring he's proud of his imperfect teeth.

While many of his fellow screen stars go to great lengths and expense to keep their gnashers gleaming and faultless, Paxton admits his gap teeth are one of his favourite characteristics.

He says, "I'm proud of the gap between my front teeth. I think it gives my face personality."

Paxton says he and fellow "gap-endowed" actors Woody Harrelson and WILLEM DAFOE have a mutual admiration society.

He explains, "They never cover up their gaps for roles either."

In fact, the gap's appeal is global. Paxton says a Moroccan once rubbed his shoulder for good luck after glimpsing his gap.