Liam Neeson Says He Was ‘Embarrassed’ By Taken, But I’m More Focused On The Funny Favor He’s Done For His Sons’ Friends Who Love The Franchise

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Liam Neeson has thought about leaving behind action films, as he’s set to star in a comedy reboot of “The Naked Gun” after more than ten years. Yet, it’s hard not to remember his career-defining role in “Taken,” which opened doors for him in numerous other action movies. It’s surprising enough that Neeson admitted he felt “embarrassed” by action films, but what truly stands out is a humorous gesture he made for his sons’ friends who are enthusiasts of the “Taken” series.

In addition to showcasing impressive action skills in the Taken films, Liam Neeson’s portrayal as an iconic action movie father is largely attributed to the memorable phone message scene where his character Bryan Mills confronted his daughter’s kidnapper. Known for his role in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, Neeson admitted to The New York Times a slight embarrassment towards Taken, but he also shared an amusing story about a favor he did for his sons’ friends.

To clarify, let me say that I genuinely appreciated the script. However, what’s astonishing is the number of times I’ve recorded that iconic ‘Taken’ voice message for my sons’ friends.

Hey there! That’s the cost for delivering such an authentically menacing tone, isn’t it? It’s not hard to see why Liam Neeson’s kids are fortunate to have a dad with such an impressive skillset. After all, many action movie characters have issued threats directly to their adversaries, but Bryan Mills managed to convey a powerful message without even needing to confront his daughter’s abductor face-to-face. His determination was unmistakable, and he made it clear that her rescue was non-negotiable.

It’s clear that Neeson didn’t anticipate how successful the Taken series would become. Initially dismissing the action thriller as corny, he assumed it would be released directly to video. However, with the franchise significantly boosting his career as an action star, this serves as a reminder that even unexpected projects can have a significant and positive impact on one’s career path.

As a movie enthusiast, I can certainly relate! Let me rephrase it in a more personal and engaging manner:

Just like many of us, the friends of the Oscar-nominated actor’s sons found themselves hooked by Liam Neeson’s iconic phone speech in ‘Taken’. One father even used it as a clever tactic to motivate his sluggish kids into tackling their chores. And, as if that wasn’t enough, the man behind ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’ decided to pull off an hilarious prank by impersonating Bryan Mills from ‘Taken’, giving his on-screen daughter’s ex-boyfriend a call he probably won’t forget anytime soon. Trust me, receiving a call like that from the ‘Taken’ character would send chills down anyone’s spine and make you want to hit the road in a hurry!

Additionally, it’s worth noting that the gifted actor has been asked by talk shows such as “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and “The Graham Norton Show” to perform the movie’s renowned phone speech for a live audience. It’s fascinating when a single scene in a film strikes a chord with viewers so deeply that it continues to be celebrated even long after its premiere; or, in this instance, becomes the subject of numerous voicemail message requests.

Liam Neeson demonstrates exceptional fatherly care towards his children, similar to his character Bryan Mills from the movie “Taken.” Although nobody would relish receiving a stern warning from his formidable on-screen persona, fans seem to enjoy being metaphorically ‘threatened’ by the accomplished actor. To experience Neeson’s iconic phone scene in “Taken,” one can subscribe to Disney+ and stream the movie.

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2025-08-15 20:44