The Surprising Facts About Liam Neeson

By: Dan Cooper

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At 71 years old, Liam Neeson is a Hollywood legend known for his roles in movies such as “Schindler’s List”, “Star Wars”, and the “Taken” franchise. Despite his successful career, Neeson’s life has been filled with hardship, including his wife’s tragic death. Here are ten facts you might not know about Liam Neeson.

1. Childhood Trauma

Growing up in Northern Ireland, Liam Neeson witnessed the Northern Irish conflict, as well as other violent events. He even remembers hearing his next-door neighbor being beaten by her drunken husband. Neeson has stated that these events had a lasting impact on him, causing what he describes as post-traumatic stress disorder.

2. Boxing Champion

Neeson started boxing at the age of 9 and became a three-time amateur boxing champion in the city of Ulster. Boxing allowed him to release his anger, making him an expert in the sport.

3. Teaching Career

After working as a forklift driver, truck driver, and architectural assistant, Neeson briefly worked as a schoolteacher. However, he left the profession after a confrontation with a student who threatened him with a knife.

4. Relationship with Helen Mirren

Neeson was in a relationship with award-winning actress Helen Mirren for four years, after meeting her on the set of “Excalibur” in 1980.

5. Tragic Death of His Wife

Neeson’s wife, actress Natasha Richardson, died tragically in a skiing accident in 2009. The couple had been married for 15 years and had two sons together.

6. Struggle with Addiction

After a motorcycle accident in 2000, Neeson was given morphine, which led to a battle with addiction. He has also admitted to struggling with alcoholism after the death of his wife.

7. Officer of the OBE

In 1999, Queen Elizabeth II made Neeson an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

8. Oscar Nomination

Neeson was nominated for the Best Leading Actor Oscar for his role in “Schindler’s List.”

9. Net Worth

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Liam Neeson has an estimated net worth of $145 million, with much of his fortune coming from the “Taken” franchise.

10. Controversial Statements

Neeson has come under fire for some controversial statements he’s made in the media. For instance, he used a racist slur when discussing revenge for someone close to him being raped. Additionally, he received backlash from the #MeToo movement for suggesting that women who speak out against harassment are “waiting for a hunt.”

Despite facing significant hardships, Liam Neeson has continued to thrive in his career in Hollywood. His champion spirit and impressive acting skills have made him a beloved icon of the industry.

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