Pattinson was born in London. His mother, Clare, worked for a modeling agency, and his father, Richard, imported vintage cars from the U.S.[9] Pattinson attended Tower House School and Harrodian School.[10] He became involved in amateur theatre through the Barnes Theatre Company. After some backstage experience there, he took on acting roles. He caught the attention of an acting agent in a production of Tess of the D'Urbervilles and began looking for professional roles. Pattinson has two elder sisters, one of whom is singer Lizzy Pattinson.[11]
Pattinson was named one of the "Sexiest Men Alive" in 2008 and 2009 by People magazine.[36][37] In 2009, he was also named "Sexiest Man Alive" through a poll conducted by Glamour.[38] GQ named Pattinson Britain's "Best Dressed Man" of 2010, stating, "Extremely elegant and inspiring, the true essence of a contemporary man."[39] He was named one of Vanity Fair's "Top Hollywood Earners of 2009" with earnings of $18 million in 2009.[40]
Pattinson was named one of the "Sexiest Men Alive" in 2008 and 2009 by People magazine.[36][37] In 2009, he was also named "Sexiest Man Alive" through a poll conducted by Glamour.[38] GQ named Pattinson Britain's "Best Dressed Man" of 2010, stating, "Extremely elegant and inspiring, the true essence of a contemporary man."[39] He was named one of Vanity Fair's "Top Hollywood Earners of 2009" with earnings of $18 million in 2009.[40]