London, July 26 - Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington was delighted when movie bosses ordered him to fatten up for his latest movie role in 'The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3' because he thoroughly enjoyed stuffing himself with junk food.

The actor who appears in the movie alongside John Travolta, plays an overweight character and the slim star had to gain a staggering 40 pounds (18 Kg), reports imdb.com.

'Getting there was such fun. Milkshakes, hamburgers... middle of the night a little Haagen Daz (ice cream). Anything I wanted...just eat, eat, eat,' he said.

The 'American Gangster' star returned to his toned physique after shooting the film, but admits his wife enjoyed his fuller figure.

'She was Ok with it, I think every wife wants their husband to be plump and fatten them up. She doesn't eat, she cooks all this food for me, but she doesn't eat it,' he said.