Liam Neeson has announced that he feels he is “too old” for action movies, opting instead for a role in the upcoming comedy film The Naked Gun. The veteran actor, known for his iconic role in the Taken series, expressed concerns about taking on parts that may be unsuitable for his age during an interview with Variety.
At 73, Neeson reflected on his career, noting that the first Taken film was released 18 years ago when he was 54. He stated, “I still get offered the occasional one, but I don’t want to insult audiences if they’re watching whole fight scenes and it’s not me.” Neeson emphasized his desire to maintain authenticity in his performances, adding, “I just wouldn’t do it.”
A New Direction in Comedy
In The Naked Gun, Neeson takes on the role of Frank Drebin Jr., the son of the late Leslie Nielsen‘s famous detective character. While preparing for this legacy sequel directed by Akiva Schaffer, he chose not to revisit the original films. “No, I just trusted the script,” Neeson explained. He acknowledged the collaborative nature of the filming process, mentioning that an additional writer provided alternative scenes, helping to shape the final product.
Amidst the promotional activities for the film, Neeson and co-star Pamela Anderson have sparked romance rumors. Neeson remarked on their chemistry, stating, “From day one we just seemed to have a nice chemistry together,” which he felt contributed to the film’s comedic elements.
Their interactions off-screen included shared meals, with Neeson praising Anderson’s baking skills, particularly her gluten-free muffins. “She’s a wonderful baker,” he noted, adding that they enjoyed meals together, which fostered their on-screen rapport.
Maintaining Professionalism on Set
Despite the comedic nature of The Naked Gun, Neeson insisted that the production was “serious business.” He clarified that while laughter is common in comedies, the cast remained focused during filming. “When we rehearsed stuff, we’d get rid of our personal giggles,” he explained.
The actor acknowledged the importance of choreography in their scenes, stating that certain comedic moments required precise timing. “I don’t want to say it was always serious, far from it. But it was serious business, of course, shooting any movie and keeping a sense of lightness,” he said.
As Neeson transitions from action to comedy, his candid reflections on age and authenticity resonate with audiences. With The Naked Gun set to release soon, fans are eager to see how this new direction unfolds for the seasoned actor.
