Liam Neeson says he was a “embarrassed” by ‘Taken’ films

Liam Neeson has confessed he has felt “embarrassed” by the success of his action-thriller hit Taken.

In 2008 the Irish actor, who up to then had been mostly known for prestige dramas such as Schindler’s List and Rob Roy, pivoted into the action-thriller genre with Taken. It was the story of a former CIA operative who travels to France looking for his kidnapped daughter, the movie was a global hit and reinvented the actor as a tough action icon.

The film’s success led to two sequels and a slew of action-thrillers starring Neeson. However, the movie, as well as a famous scene where his character explains his “particular set of skills” to his daughter’s kidnappers, was a source of discomfort for him.

“I was a tiny bit embarrassed (by Taken)” he told The New York Times. “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”.

He now makes another diversion, this time into comedy with The Naked Gun, a reboot of the 80s and 90s comedies starring Leslie Nielsen. “I’m honestly not trying to change,” he explained. “It wasn’t deliberate, but there’s been a lot of this for me”.

Late last year, Neeson explained he plans to retire from the action genre. In this new interview, he explains why he’s choosier with physical roles. “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,” he said. “I have too much respect for audiences”.

While promoting The Naked Gun, rumours spread that he was in a romantic relationship with his co-star, Pamela Anderson. The pair referenced this by pretending to kiss on The Today Show, prompting shock from the hosts.

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