Brian Cox on Football, His Acting Career, and Scottish Pride

Brian Cox has never been shy about expressing his opinions. He recently voiced his discontent with how Americans have adapted the game of football, turning it into what the NFL is today – a version of rugby with helmets and calling it football. Despite many Americans getting away with referring to it as football, Cox believes true football involves kicking the ball. To him, that is the beautiful game.

Cox is known for his dry and straightforward humor, which often carries into his real-life interactions. During a video interview with The Athletic, he exuded warmth and energy, despite being renowned for playing the ruthless media mogul Logan Roy in the acclaimed series Succession. His home was filled with life, including his cats Pishi and Princess.

Having turned 80 recently, Cox seems as lively as ever, engaging in conversations eagerly. This interview was part of a ‘Why I Love The Beautiful Game’ series, where famous personalities share their passion for football. For Cox, football has deep roots in his childhood, first in Dundee, Scotland, and later in the tragic yet inspiring story of Manchester United’s Busby Babes.

The Love for Football and Community

To Cox, football is more than a game; it’s a part of life embedded deeply in the United Kingdom’s culture. Despite his lack of skill on the field, Cox’s passion for the game never waned. He recalled how, as a child, he faced the routine of being the last one picked for teams. Despite this, football remained a cherished part of his life, intertwined with memories of his family.

His brother Charlie had notable football talent, and his cousin Bobby Cox made over 300 appearances for Dundee, including captaining them to their only top-flight title in 1962. The Dundee team of the late 1950s and early ’60s holds a special place in his heart.

“In Dundee, you could attend a match at Dundee United’s ground and see a Dundee game simultaneously. The close proximity created a unique rivalry. It’s said to be changing now, which is unfortunate.”

Cox’s Life Beyond Football

Football provided some solace during Cox’s challenging early years, especially after his father’s passing and his mother’s subsequent mental health struggles. He left school at 15 and began working at the Dundee Repertory Theatre. A scholarship to the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art marked the start of a career filled with success, including acclaimed roles in television and film.

Despite his achievements, Cox remains grounded, attributing success to hard work rather than superstition. He finds parallels between his acting work and great football teams, valuing the commitment and discipline required in both fields.

An Arsenal Admirer, A Manchester United Fan

Though some might confuse his praise for Arsenal as allegiance, Cox asserts his loyalty remains with Manchester United, influenced profoundly by the Munich air disaster of 1958. He fondly remembers legendary United players like Duncan Edwards, whose tragic death impacted him deeply as a child.

Yet Arsenal, too, is a subject of admiration, particularly under the management of Mikel Arteta. His son’s fandom has also drawn Cox to the Emirates Stadium, where he has witnessed memorable moments.

Scottish Pride and Global Football

Cox is vocal about his Scottish heritage and the nation’s contributions to the world. He is hopeful about the Scottish team’s prospects in the upcoming World Cup after missing out for decades. Encouraged by the team’s recent form, he expresses cautious optimism for their success, though he recognizes the formidable challenge posed by Brazil.

With deep connections to Britain’s sporting history, Cox’s love for football and his pride in Scottish culture remain constants in his life. These passions reveal more about the man beyond his roles on screen, showing his enduring spirit and love for the community through the games he cherishes.