Liam Neeson recently opened up about his experience leading the iconic action franchise Taken, sharing mixed feelings about the film’s unexpected success during an interview with The New York Times. Reflecting on the film’s global impact since its 2008 release, Neeson also discussed his transition into comedy with the upcoming film The Naked Gun, highlighting how his action career has evolved and the importance of respecting audiences.
Liam Neeson Reflects on His Relationship with Taken
Known for his commanding roles in films like Schindler’s List, Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, and Batman Begins, Liam Neeson gained a new kind of fame with Taken, the 2008 thriller that sparked a lucrative franchise. Despite the film’s widespread acclaim and box office success, which contributed to gross revenues exceeding $900 million when including sequels, Neeson expressed some embarrassment about how organically the movie‘s popularity grew.
When asked about his feelings concerning Taken’s rise, Neeson confessed,
“I was a tiny bit embarrassed. Don’t get me wrong, I did love the script. But I can’t tell you how many voicemails [of the ‘Taken’ speech] I’ve recorded for my sons’ friends.”
—Liam Neeson, Actor
This candid admission illustrates a complex mix of pride and surprise from Neeson, who originally viewed the project as a simple story unlikely to make a significant splash. He recalled his initial expectations about the movie’s release, saying he thought,
“It’s going to go straight to video, it doesn’t matter, it’s just such a simple little story.”
—Liam Neeson, Actor
The Unexpected Journey from a Simple Script to Worldwide Success
Although Neeson’s initial projections for Taken were modest, the film’s global reception dramatically exceeded expectations. It became a defining chapter in Neeson’s career, repositioning him as a global action star. The enduring popularity of Taken and its sequels helped permeate popular culture, with Neeson’s iconic “I will find you” speech becoming widely referenced.
Still, this success also brought about a certain discomfort for Neeson. He reflected on the inevitable reality of aging in his profession, emphasizing his respect for audiences by acknowledging limits in the types of roles he should pursue. He candidly stated,
“There comes a point where audiences know, and I don’t want to insult an audience by me pretending I’m 50 years of age. I don’t want to do that. I have too much respect for audiences.”
—Liam Neeson, Actor
This self-awareness highlights the challenges actors face when they become closely identified with specific roles and genres, particularly as time changes industry perceptions and audiences’ expectations.
Transitioning from Action Hero to Comedy Actor
Now embracing a new direction in his career, Neeson is stepping away from the intense action roles that marked his rise to fame. His upcoming role in The Naked Gun, an action-comedy and legacy sequel to the well-loved franchise, demonstrates his readiness to explore humor while maintaining his signature serious demeanor on screen.
Neeson’s willingness to experiment with comedy follows several contemporary appearances in lighter projects, signaling a broader artistic range. The film’s producer, Seth MacFarlane, praised Neeson’s unique approach, explaining,
“We didn’t want Liam Neeson doing a funny character. We wanted Liam Neeson doing what he does so beautifully.”
—Seth MacFarlane, Producer
MacFarlane further elaborated,
“He’s treating everything like this is ‘Taken’ or ‘Schindler’s List,’ with the same severity in his voice, facial expressions and body language. That’s when he is at his funniest.”
—Seth MacFarlane, Producer
Co-star Paul Hauser echoed this sentiment, noting that Neeson’s serious treatment of comedic material is precisely what makes him successful in this new genre. According to Hauser,
“He’s treating everything like this is ‘Taken’. That’s when he is at his funniest.”
—Paul Hauser, Actor
The Significance of Neeson’s Career Shift
Liam Neeson moving into comedy after a distinguished action career suggests a strategic evolution that respects both his talents and the intelligence of his audience. By acknowledging an “expiry date” on certain types of roles, Neeson is likely ensuring his continued relevance, preventing typecasting, and expanding his creative offerings.
The fresh comedic tone of The Naked Gun, combined with Neeson’s serious delivery, might pave the way for new opportunities that balance his established gravitas with humor. His openness about past embarrassment and current ambitions demonstrates an actor attuned to his legacy and future potential, appealing to longtime fans while inviting new viewers into his evolving career.
