In a newly published interview with The Times, Brian Cox sparked widespread debate after delivering pointed remarks about several of Hollywood’s most recognisable names, including Margot Robbie and Edward Norton.
The Succession star, long known for his blunt commentary on the film industry, revisited familiar frustrations about contemporary acting styles, celebrity culture and what he perceives as growing excess within modern performances.
While he framed his remarks as personal opinion rather than outright condemnation, the tone of his critique added fuel to an already ongoing conversation about how veteran actors view the new generation shaping the industry’s identity.
What Brian Cox Said About Margot Robbie
Brian Cox questioned Margot Robbie’s casting as Catherine Earnshaw in a new adaptation of Wuthering Heights, suggesting that she is “far too beautiful” for the role and that the character should have a more raw, grounded appearance.
He even implied that the part might traditionally require a different kind of physicality, though he later softened his stance by acknowledging he could be wrong and that the film may still turn out to be excellent.
What Brian Cox Said About Edward Norton
Brian Cox was far more direct when discussing Edward Norton, describing him as “a pain in the arse”, a remark that echoed earlier comments he had made in previous interviews and even his memoir.
He has previously suggested that Norton can be overly self-involved in his creative approach, particularly when it comes to writing and directing interests, which he views as disruptive in collaborative environments.
What Brian Cox Said About Johnny Depp
Brian Cox reiterated his long-standing criticism of Johnny Depp, calling him “so overblown” and “so overrated” in comments that resurfaced alongside the interview.
He also revealed that he previously chose not to work with Depp, reportedly stepping away from a role in Pirates of the Caribbean, reinforcing his broader stance on certain Hollywood stars whose acting styles he finds excessive or self-indulgent.
What Brian Cox Said About Ian McKellen
Brian Cox also addressed Ian McKellen, stating that his acting is “not to my taste”, while making clear that the comment was subjective rather than an objective critique of skill.
The remark fits into Cox’s broader pattern of challenging highly celebrated performances when they do not align with his own philosophy of acting, which tends to favor restraint and realism over theatrical flourish.
What Brian Cox Said About Kevin Spacey
Kevin Spacey was also among the figures Brian Cox addressed with notably strong criticism, as part of the same interview cycle that reignited debate across Hollywood.
He referred to Spacey in very harsh terms, focusing less on his on-screen legacy and more on concerns surrounding his personal conduct and reputation within the industry.
Rather than engaging with specific performances, he framed his comments around behavior and accountability, positioning Spacey as an example in a broader discussion about professionalism and responsibility in Hollywood.
What Brian Cox Said About Quentin Tarantino and Others
Beyond individual actors, Cox expanded his criticism to filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino, whose work he dismissed as overly stylized, continuing his long-running skepticism toward what he sees as exaggerated cinematic approaches.
He also referenced other industry figures in similar terms, reinforcing the idea that his comments are part of a broader idea about authenticity, discipline and what he considers “over-performed” cinema.
