George Clooney's father thinks the Hollywood star would make a great US president.

Although 'The Ides of March' actor has previously ruled out running for the top job in American politics, his father Nick - who failed in his own attempt to be elected to Kentucky's 4th Congressional District in 2004 - wishes his son would change his mind because he thinks he would be a "great public servant".

Speaking on 'The John Murray Show' on Ireland's RTE Radio One, Nick said: "I don't know whether [George] will even run for president.  I know he closely followed my race for the US House of Representatives in Kentucky but he didn't like what he saw. He understands compromise but I don't think he's comfortable with the level of compromise involved in politics. My guess is he will not run for elective office although I do hope I'm wrong as I think he would make a great public servant.

Nick - who has had a successful career as a journalist - also revealed he doesn't mind being referred to as George's father because he is used to having a famous sister, the singer Rosemary Clooney.

The 77 year old said: "I don't mind being referred to as George's Dad, I had plenty of training, I was known as Rosemary's brother for a long time before this."