Hollywood veteran Liam Neeson, known for his intense action performances, is preparing for a significant career transition at age 72.
According to Fox News, the actor has decided to step away from the action genre that redefined his career in later years, citing the importance of authenticity to audiences.
This shift follows Liam Neeson's unexpected rise as an action star, which started with the 2008 film Taken when he was 56.
Although he still participates in his own fight scenes, he admits the physical toll of the genre. He now depends on his stunt double, Mark Vanselow, for the more demanding stunts.
Neeson said about his upcoming retirement from action films:
I'm 72 – it has to stop at some stage. You can't fool audiences. I don't want Mark to be fighting my fight scenes for me.
Before achieving international fame, Neeson's career path included humble beginnings as a forklift operator at Guinness Brewery and a truck driver. His acting journey began in theater, leading to his first film role portraying Jesus Christ in the 1978 religious film "Pilgrim's Progress."
The actor's career trajectory took a significant turn when he relocated to Los Angeles in 1986 after securing a guest role in the popular series "Miami Vice."
Despite appearing in several films, including "Husbands and Wives" (1988) and "Leap of Faith" (1992), Neeson considered leaving Hollywood due to disappointing box office performances.
His breakthrough came in 1994 when Steven Spielberg cast him as Oskar Schindler in "Schindler's List," after watching his performance in the Broadway play "Agatha Christie." The role earned him nominations for an Oscar, BAFTA, and Golden Globe Award.
Neeson is now venturing into comedy with his latest project, "The Naked Gun," a reboot of the classic Leslie Nielsen series. The actor has completed filming for his role as Frank Drebin Jr.
Regarding his new comedic role, Neeson expressed uncertainty, "Whether I can carry it or not, I honestly don't know."
The actor plans to continue working in films but intends to conclude his action movie career by the end of 2025, marking a new phase in his decades-long career.
Liam Neeson's journey from a classical actor to an action star represents one of Hollywood's most unexpected career transformations. His decision to retire from action roles stems from his commitment to maintaining authenticity in his performances. The actor's transition into comedy with "The Naked Gun" demonstrates his versatility and willingness to explore new genres. His career spans over four decades, encompassing everything from serious dramas to high-octane action thrillers.
