Hollywood hardman Liam Neeson attempted to show his versatility actor as he donned a red suit and hat and auditioned for the role of an in-store Santa Claus.
The Ballymena actor performed the audition as part of a skit for the Stephen Colbert Show.
He faced the camera with his trademark intense stare and began reciting the words to the popular Christmas song Santa Claus is Coming to Town.
However, Neeson delivered the lines with the menace of his Taken character Bryan Mills after his daughter was kidnapped, not the gentle, friendly mannerisms usually associated with Old St Nick.
He was asked by the director off-screen to try and play the role “a little more jolly”.
Neeson tried again and shot a beaming smile to the camera before again reverting to his hardman persona.
His comments of “I watch you when you’re sleeping” came across more sinister than they were intended in the Christmas song.
However, despite concerns from the crew behind the camera, Neeson was adamant he was playing the role in the correct way.
He passionately explained: “If you don’t mind me saying. I think it’s right. Do you understand what Santa’s saying here? He’s making a list – naughty, nice. He’s detailed. He’s single-minded. He’s an eye in the sky bringing swift judgment.”
“But he also bringing toys to children” comes the comment from the director.
To which Neeson solemnly replied: “Not the naughty ones!”
It is Neeson’s ability to laugh at himself in this way that has made him one of the most popular actors in Hollywood.
Take a look at the video for yourself.
Neeson’s performance was reminiscent of his cameo in the Ricky Gervais comedy Life’s Too Short.
The scene saw him try to convince Gervais and writing partner Stephen Merchant that he has what it takes to write good quality comedy material.
However, his idea of funny did not quite match up with his audience, although he was simply too intimidating for anyone to stop him.
Take a look for yourself.
