Liam Neeson has canceled red carpet interviews ahead of a Cinema Society screening of his new movie “Cold Pursuit,” slated to take place tonight at AMC Loews Lincoln Square.
The move to pull the star comes after controversial remarks he made in an interview that came out Monday in the UK’s Independent about wanting to kill a “black bastard” to avenge the rape of a friend of his 40 years ago.
A source tells us the decision to pull Neeson from interviews was made by the film’s studio, Lionsgate.
Another source tells us, “Liam seems to feel that he’s said what he needed to say.”
We’re told none of the cast will be interviewed.
Neeson went on “Good Morning America” Tuesday in what appeared to be an attempt at damage control, but seemed to make the situation worse.
“I went out deliberately into black areas in the city, looking to be set upon,” he said. “It shocked me and it hurt me … I did seek help, I went to a priest … Luckily no violence occurred.”
He continued, “If she had said an Irish, or a Scot, or a Brit or a Lithuanian, I know I would’ve had the same effect. I was trying to show honor to (and) stand up for my dear friend in this terrible, medieval fashion.”
“I’m a fairly intelligent guy,” he added. “That’s why it kind of shocked me when I came down to Earth after these horrible feelings. Luckily, no violence occurred ever, thanks be to God.”
We hear Neeson is still scheduled to attend tonight’s premiere.
Reps for the actor could not be reached for comment.
Source: Read Full Article