Liam Neeson Slams Method Actors Daniel Day-Lewis And Robert De Niro

Liam Neeson has slammed method actors, calling their dedication to roles "bull***t." The "Taken" actor singled out Daniel Day-Lewis and Robert De Niro in his scathing attack, claiming they add unnecessary "bells and bows" to acting.

He said: "Actors such as Daniel Day-Lewis and Robert De Niro are often held up as 'this is the way to act,' but I don't go to bed dreaming and sleeping the character."

"There's a lot of bull***t in acting. I'm not criticizing those guys as actors but sometimes you just have to show up and deliver a speech."

Oscar-winner Daniel is a famous advocate of method acting - he refused to be treated for pneumonia while filming 2002 movie "Gangs of New York" because it would not have been available in the 19th century, when the film was set.

He is also renowned for his refusal to break character when acting, and Liam - who also starred in the 2002 movie - was said to be angry Daniel insisted on being addressed by his character's name at all times, even when he was off set and in the gym.

Liam added: "You don't have to pretend to be somebody, I like to think I am enough. I'm not interested in, 'Oh he lost 30 lbs. for this role.' I think that should stay private, I don't want to hear it.

"I have to be truthful, whether I'm wielding a light saber or talking to a bank manager, I don't like to add bells and bows to my acting."