In a surprising twist of events, Matthew Lillard has expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of support he received after Quentin Tarantino’s recent disparaging comments about him and other actors. The director’s remarks ignited a wave of solidarity from fans and colleagues alike, leaving Lillard reflecting on the experience with both humour and appreciation.
Tarantino’s Controversial Comments
During a recent episode of Brett Easton Ellis’s podcast, Quentin Tarantino made headlines by stating he had little admiration for Matthew Lillard, Paul Dano, or Owen Wilson. His sharp critique came while he was ranking the best films of the 21st century, where he highlighted the 2007 film *There Will Be Blood*. Tarantino controversially claimed Dano’s performance was “weak sauce,” suggesting that Austin Butler would have been a stronger choice. In a sweeping dismissal, he included Lillard in his list of actors he doesn’t care for.
The backlash was immediate and considerable. Fans and industry peers rallied around Lillard, creating a chorus of support that took the actor by surprise.
A Heartfelt Response
Lillard, 56, took to *Entertainment Weekly* to share his thoughts on the flood of affection directed his way. “It was like living through your own wake,” he reflected, likening the experience to receiving eulogies while still alive. He appreciated the heartfelt gestures that filled social media, stating, “All those R.I.P. emails or tweets and Instagram posts and TikToks were so sweet. I can’t imagine a more lovely reaction to what happened.”
His director for *The Life of Chuck*, Mike Flanagan, stood up for him, calling Lillard “the goddamn greatest.” Even Ryan Reynolds got in on the act, featuring Lillard in a Mint Mobile commercial where he proclaimed, “There are only two things that are universally loved: saving money and beloved actor Matthew Lillard.”
Acknowledging Personal Preferences
Despite the outpouring of support, Lillard remained humble. “Nobody has to like me. Nobody has to like any actor out there, obviously. It’s personal preference,” he said, acknowledging that he is not everyone’s cup of tea. Yet, the affection he received was undeniably moving and reinforced his sense of worth in an industry where opinions can be harsh and deeply personal.
Previously, at GalaxyCon in Columbus, Lillard expressed the sting of Tarantino’s comments, noting that such remarks would not be directed at more established stars like Tom Cruise. “It hurts your feelings. It f***ing sucks,” he admitted, illustrating the stark contrast between popularity in fan circles versus Hollywood’s elite.
Dano’s Support and Solidarity
Paul Dano, who also faced Tarantino’s ire, shared his gratitude for the collective defence from the industry. In an interview with *Variety*, he commented on the support he received, saying, “That was really nice. I was also incredibly grateful that the world spoke up for me so I didn’t have to.” Dano’s response further highlights the solidarity that emerged from the critique, showcasing a strong sense of community among actors.
Why it Matters
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerability that exists within the entertainment industry. Public figures are often subjected to harsh scrutiny, and the support Lillard received illustrates the power of community in the face of negativity. The collective response not only uplifts individual actors but also fosters a culture where kindness and respect can prevail over dismissive criticism. In a world where opinions can often overshadow talent, Lillard’s experience underscores the importance of unity and recognition within the arts, inspiring a dialogue about the treatment of performers in Hollywood.
