Published: 01 August 2025. The English Chronicle Online
Hollywood actor Brian Cox, widely known for his powerful performances and outspoken views, has openly criticised former US President Donald Trump for his comments on the timing of Scottish independence referendums. Speaking to Sky News during the Edinburgh Festival, Cox dismissed Trump’s suggestion that Scotland should wait 50 or 75 years between independence votes as “bollocks,” urging instead for renewed momentum toward the cause he supports passionately.
The 79-year-old actor, who has long been a vocal advocate for Scottish independence, did not mince words when responding to Trump’s remarks made during his recent visit to Scotland. Trump had expressed that a country “can’t go through that too much” when discussing the prospect of repeated referendums on independence. Cox, however, described the former president as “that idiot in America” and called for action without further delay. “Let’s get on with it and let’s get it done,” he said emphatically, underscoring the urgency and determination within the independence movement.
Cox also acknowledged the challenges facing the campaign, noting the negative impact of ongoing investigations into the Scottish National Party’s finances. The police fraud inquiry, which has dominated headlines for months, has significantly affected the party and its wider supporters. Nicola Sturgeon, former First Minister of Scotland, was arrested and later cleared of wrongdoing, while her estranged husband, Peter Murrell, who served as SNP chief executive for two decades, remains under legal scrutiny after appearing in court on an embezzlement charge.
Away from politics, Brian Cox is preparing for a much-anticipated return to the Scottish stage after a decade. He will star in a new play that explores the Royal Bank of Scotland’s role in the 2008 financial crisis—a subject deeply resonant for many. Speaking ahead of the Edinburgh Festival performances, Cox described the production as “a masterpiece” and one of the finest projects of his career.
During the interview, Cox was also asked about Kevin Spacey, his “old friend” and fellow actor who has been largely absent from the public eye since 2017 following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. Spacey, 65, faced a highly publicised trial in the UK in 2023 but was acquitted on all counts.
Expressing strong opposition to “cancel culture,” Cox argued that Spacey deserves forgiveness and a chance to rebuild his career. “Kevin has made a lot of mistakes, but there is a sort of viciousness about it which is unwarranted,” Cox said. “Everybody is capable of the same mistakes and the same sins as everybody else.”
Though acknowledging that a comeback would be difficult for Spacey, Cox remains hopeful. “He was tricky, but he has learnt a big lesson. He should be allowed to go on because he is a very fine actor. I just think we should be forgiving.” Cox concluded his remarks with a reflection on humanity and compassion: “What is the joy you get out of kicking somebody in the balls when they are down? That is what I cannot stand.”
Brian Cox’s candid interview has reignited debate over Scottish independence and the complexities of public forgiveness in the entertainment industry, reflecting his enduring commitment to both political causes and cultural conversations.
