Brian Cox Unleashes Blunt Critique of Trump and American Patriarchy
In a characteristically forthright new interview, Scottish actor Brian Cox has launched a no-holds-barred takedown of former President Donald Trump and what he describes as the 'insidious' patriarchy in the United States. The 79-year-old Succession star, promoting his directorial debut Glenrothan, did not mince words when speaking to The Times of London.
Cox's Scathing Assessment of American Society
Cox argued forcefully that America systematically excludes women from positions of ultimate political power. 'I think it's an economic thing. In America they don't like women. They won't let a woman be president, not in the foreseeable future,' he stated, pointing to Hillary Clinton's 2016 presidential loss to Trump as evidence.
The actor elaborated on his view of patriarchal structures, describing them as deeply embedded and damaging. 'The patriarchy is so invasive and so insidious, it's hard to throw it off. I think the patriarchy is a mess, and it's the patriarchy that got us into the position that we're in at the moment, and we don't learn the lessons,' Cox asserted. His proposed solution was unequivocal: 'I say, give it over to the women.'
Direct Criticism of Donald Trump's Motivations
Turning his attention specifically to Trump, Cox offered a blistering character assessment. He declared that the former president 'doesn't care about the people. He's only interested in the oil.' Cox attributed Trump's actions to base motivations, stating, 'There's just sheer greed motivating him, nothing else. The idea he's liberating people is a nonsense. And it's that greed that sort of permeates through society.'
The interview highlighted Cox's longstanding reputation for speaking his mind without filter. He has previously offered critical assessments of several former collaborators, including Edward Norton, whom he once labeled 'a pain in the arse'; Kevin Spacey, called 'a stupid, stupid man'; and Ian McKellen, whose acting he said was 'not to my taste.'
No Regrets About Bluntness at Nearly 80
When asked by The Times whether his bluntness has ever cost him friendships or created problems, Cox laughed off concerns. 'Well, I don't know yet if it's caused me problems. I mean, my wife keeps saying, 'Brian, be careful. Brian, be careful.' I think, 'I don't want to be careful any more! I'll be 80 this year. I'm gonna say what I want to say.''
The Emmy-winning actor is currently preparing to release Glenrothan, his first directed movie, which he describes as a 'love letter to Scotland.' The comedy-drama, in which Cox also stars alongside Alan Cumming, centers on Donal (Cumming) returning to his family-owned whiskey distillery in the Scottish Highlands after 35 years in the U.S. to reconcile with his brother Sandy (Cox). The film is scheduled for release in theaters across the U.K. and Ireland on April 17.
