Liam Neeson's revelation that he once wanted to kill a random black man has ignited fierce debate, with some commentators suggesting the actor's unguarded remarks could be career-ending. In an interview with The Independent, the 66-year-old admitted that after learning someone close to him had been raped, he sought to take out his anger on a random black person. He later expressed regret and denied being racist.
Some columnists have condemned Neeson's comments as 'terrifying, sickening and really saddening'. One pundit said the only question Hollywood would ask is 'Liam who?', implying his career may be over. However, others have praised his candour, calling him 'brave' for admitting a terrible thought. One writer noted that Neeson contemporaneously realised his thinking was wrong and was ashamed.
Neeson told ABC's Good Morning America that he hoped his remarks would start a wider conversation about racism. The actor, who lost his wife Natasha Richardson in 2002 and his nephew last month, has faced scrutiny over whether his therapy sessions encouraged him to 'let it all out'. The debate shows no signs of abating, with social media and the press weighing in on whether Neeson should be 'cancelled'.
