British actress Helen Mirren has played some major roles in a career spanning over four decades. She's taken on some of the strongest women in history, including a turn as Queen Elizabeth II which earned her an Academy Award.

But perhaps her most important role is one she shares with all of us -- that of a devoted auntie. In a 1997 article for The Independent, Helen told reporter Lynne Wallis about the very special relationship she has with her nephew, Simon Mirren.

"The aunt/nephew relationship is a fab one, almost as good as being a grandmother," she said. "Simon is exactly like my son, except that he's not. There is no chastising, only spoiling, and you can be racy, and break all the rules. I've never wanted kids but I'm very happy to enjoy other people's, and I'm incredibly lucky to have Simon."

Auntie Helen even let Simon live with her for six years, before he made it big as television writer. "My auntie Helen is like my mum number two, and we're very close," he told Wallis.

In her latest film, "The Last Station," Helen plays Countess Sofya Tolstoy, famed wife of author Leo Tolstoy (who just so happened to be raised by his childless aunt). Her co-stars in the film, James McAvoy (who Savvy Aunties might know from "Atonement" or "Becoming Jane") and his wife, Anne-Marie Duff, recently announced that they are expecting their first little bundle of joy.

For Helen, it's another opportunity to play auntie! "I'm very happy," she said in a recent interview. "Auntie Helen - yes I'm very happy."

No word on whether the baby on the way is a boy or girl but one thing's for sure--he or she will have a very Savvy Auntie!

Image Credit: Just Jared