“Liam Neeson Announces Retirement from Action Films at 72”

**Liam Neeson to Bid Farewell to Action Movies by 2025**

In a recent interview with PEOPLE, famed actor Liam Neeson, known for his intense performances in action films, has announced his decision to retire from the genre. After an illustrious career that gained momentum with his breakthrough role in “Taken” at the age of 56, Neeson has made it clear that he recognizes the need to step back as he approaches his 73rd birthday. “I’m 72 – it has to stop at some stage,” he stated emphatically, acknowledging the inevitable passage of time.

Throughout his action-packed career, Neeson has captured audiences with his willingness to perform his own stunt work, although he admits to relying on a stunt double for more perilous sequences. His assertion that it wouldn’t be credible for a 70-something to be taking on villains resonates with both his fans and the realities of aging in Hollywood—a place where the image of invulnerability often prevails on screen.

“You can’t fool audiences,” Neeson insightfully remarked, shining a light on the realism that modern audiences crave. He conveyed a respect for the craft, expressing that he doesn’t want to overshadow his own performances by relying on his stunt double, Mark Vanselow, for action sequences that should depict his character in a believable way. Neeson’s acknowledgement of the constraints of age marks a mature and thoughtful perspective on his career trajectory.

Reflecting on his career path, it is interesting to note that Neeson didn’t become an action hero until relatively later in life, only stepping into the role of an action star with “Taken” in 2008. His portrayal of a father on a mission to save his daughter resonated deeply with audiences and solidified his status as a leading man in the action genre. Despite this late-blooming success, he seems content with how things have evolved over the years, gracefully accepting the limitations that come with age.

His admission about stepping away from action roles does not mean he’s completely exiting the film industry. In fact, Neeson will continue to grace the big screen, albeit in different genres. He recently wrapped filming for a reboot of the beloved comedy series “Naked Gun,” indicating an exciting shift in his career. With a repertoire that spans drama, romance, and now comedy, Neeson proves he’s versatile and still committed to entertaining his audience.

As audiences prepare to say goodbye to Neeson’s action hero persona, they’re also witnessing a reflection of a man embracing the next phase of his career. While the action genre will lose one of its most compelling figures, there’s no denying that Liam Neeson will continue to shine, bringing his unique charm and depth to a variety of roles in Hollywood. His legacy in action films will forever be remembered as he embarks on new adventures in storytelling, making this a pivotal moment in his career journey.