Liam Neeson, the imposing Irish actor with a rich baritone voice, is a Hollywood mainstay. From his Oscar-nominated role in “Schindler’s List” to his recent action hero turns, Neeson knows how to deliver absolute cinema.
But the road to stardom isn’t always paved with red carpets. Even for the talented, success in Hollywood is far from guaranteed. Neeson himself once shed light on what his life might have looked like if acting hadn’t worked out, and it is far from what one can think of as the answer.
There Was No Plan-B For Liam Neeson If Acting Did Not Work Out
In the high-pressure industry of Hollywood, a Plan B is practically an unwritten rule. Aspiring actors juggle countless auditions, face constant rejection, and navigate an industry with intense competition. Having a fallback career path is almost a necessity.
However, the Taken actor is a lot different in this case. He went all in, prepared to either soar into the Hollywood sun or plummet into it. Speaking on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Neeson revealed that if he had not become an actor, he would have curled up and died.
You never know what’s going to happen to an acting career. It’s good to have a fallback… Did you have a fallback as an actor? Was it something you’re like if it doesn’t work out, definitly, I’ll go (blank), whatever the thing was? – Stephen Colbert
Well, Until I met a Teacher and Actor. I can’t remember it was years ago. He said what would you do if you couldn’t act? I said, I think I would curl up and die. And he went, that’s the right answer. He says anybody says, “well, I could do carpentry, I could be a teacher.” He said that’s what you should do. Because so much of it is about rejection – Liam Neeson replied
It seems Neeson firmly believes in giving everything to achieve your dreams. Things eventually worked out great for him as he went on to become one of the greatest and most respected stars in the industry.
Liam Neeson Is Not Very Interested In Returning to Star Wars
Liam Neeson‘s portrayal of Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace holds a special place in the hearts of fans. Qui-Gon’s discovery of young Anakin Skywalker ignited a spark that would forever alter the course of the galaxy.
With the rise of Disney+ shows expanding the Star Wars universe, many hoped to see Neeson reprise his role. Speaking to Screenrant, he cited his age as a major factor, feeling he might no longer be physically suited for the demands of the character.
“I enjoyed very much being with Ewan and George Lucas on The Phantom Menace. We shot that 26 years ago!”
“Would I do it again? I don’t think so. Too ******* old, ya know? I can’t see the situation, I really can’t, you know?”
Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace can be streamed on Disney+.
