Steve McQueen: Widows director ‘disturbed and upset’ by Liam Neeson rape revenge comments
'Can you identify a racist by looking at them? Neither can I'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Steve McQueen was “disturbed” and “upset” by Liam Neeson‘s admission that he once roaming the streets with a cosh, looking for a “black bastard” to kill after the rape of a close friend.
The pair worked together on the 2018 film Widows, which was directed by McQueen and starred Neeson alongside Viola Davis, Michelle Rodriguez, Elizabeth Debicki, and Cynthia Erivo.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, McQueen – whose film 12 Years A Slave won best picture at the 2012 Oscars – said: “My reaction was I was disturbed, I was upset and finally I was just disappointed.”
Questioned about whether he had told the Taken actor, the director said: ”Well, he knows now... You never know what’s in people’s minds. You just never know.”
Neeson, who made the shocking admission in an interview with The Independent, said that he was compelled by a “primal” urge to go seeking revenge.
Asked about whether the feeling was “really primeval” or a “learned behaviour”, McQueen replied: “I just find racism very funny and very stupid and very silly.
“It’s absurd. I don’t even know how to answer that question, if you have to get stupid to answer that question I would rather keep my intelligence if possible.”
McQueen also addressed those who have defended Neeson, saying: “Can you identify a racist by looking at them? Neither can I.”
Neeson has previously insisted he is not racist, saying his behaviour was a result of wanting to show “honour” after someone close to him had been assaulted.
:: Read the original, exclusive interview that started a global conversation
Others to have criticised Neeson include Regina King, who told The Independent that the incident changed how she thought of the Taken actor.
Ellen Page also spoke to The Independent about Neeson, calling the actor “just so f***ing racist”.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments