Scottish actor Martin Compston has revealed a deliberate retreat from publicly voicing his views on football and politics, blaming the intense anger and lack of genuine debate on social media platforms.
A 'Conscious Decision' to Step Back
The Line of Duty star, a long-time vocal supporter of Scottish independence and Celtic FC, stated he has made a "conscious decision" to back away from public commentary. While his core beliefs remain unchanged, he now chooses to express support in a "quieter manner."
Compston, who is from Greenock, told the Press Association that social media now feels like "shouting into a void," where real conversation has been replaced by people just "screaming" at each other. He emphasised that this shift in behaviour is why some may perceive him as less engaged.
Independence is Now a 'People's Movement'
The actor confirmed he will still be voting the same way and backing John Swinney's SNP at the upcoming Scottish Parliament election in May. However, he believes the independence movement has progressed to a point where it no longer requires him at the forefront.
"It's a people's movement now," Compston said, adding that the debate is firmly established in Scottish society regardless of which side of the 50% divide public opinion falls. "It's not going away," he affirmed.
Preserving Energy Away from the 'Void'
Promoting his new Paramount+ series The Revenge Club, Compston elaborated on his reasons for withdrawing. He expressed frustration at wasting energy arguing online, often with bots, which detracts from family time and can "darken your day."
He stressed respect for opposing political views, stating "It's as much your country as mine," but concluded that "people are too angry right now" for productive discourse. His solution is a focused disengagement from the public fray of both football and politics to preserve his own peace.
