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Matthew Lillard Says Tarantino Podcast Diss ‘Felt Like a Punch,’ Then Praise Poured In

In a new interview, the actor says the slight stung at first, then public and industry backing turned it into an affirming moment.

Overview

  • Lillard told People he would love to work with Quentin Tarantino, calling the criticism a “bummer” that felt like being “punched in the mouth.”
  • Tarantino’s remarks originated last fall on The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast, where he derided Paul Dano as “the weakest f---ing actor in SAG” and said he didn’t care for Lillard or Owen Wilson.
  • George Clooney, James Gunn and Mike Flanagan publicly praised Lillard after the episode circulated, with Clooney saying he would be honored to work with those Tarantino criticized.
  • Lillard first addressed the slight at GalaxyCon in Columbus, acknowledging it hurt and noting such comments aren’t leveled at top‑line stars.
  • Paul Dano later said at Sundance that he was grateful others spoke up for him, while Lillard continues pressing ahead with projects including a return in Scream 7.