Helen Mirren Calls Out Grumpy Rich Actors: “What’s There To Frown About?”

Helen Mirren has worked with the biggest names in Hollywood, both in classic and new shows. But even with all that experience, there’s one thing she still finds surprising. While talking about her roles in MobLand and 1923, the veteran actress took a moment to call out what she sees as a surprising problem in her industry: rich, older actors who show up on set with bad energy.

However, the 79-year-old actress praised Harrison Ford and Pierce Brosnan. She described how both actors bring a positive and respectful spirit to work. “They love what they do,” she said. “They’re not grumpy. They don’t act like stars. They’re just great guys.”

Helen Mirren praised Harrison Ford and Pierce Brosnan for their humility

Helen Mirren, who starred with Ford in 1923 and now with Brosnan in MobLand, highlighted their attitude as what sets them apart. She described how Ford, despite the cold weather and tough filming conditions, would sit outside with the crew rather than hide away in a warm trailer. She said Brosnan also shows up with joy and love for the work.

“They both love what they do,” she shared. “You see some older actors getting grumpy, and I just think—why? You’re being paid well, you’re working, and everyone is looking after you. What’s there to be grumpy about?”. Mirren also pointed out that actresses don’t usually act this way. In her words, it’s often the men who forget how lucky they are.

Hele Mirren believes that on-screen chemistry comes from mutual respect

When it comes to on-screen chemistry, Mirren says it’s either there or it isn’t. With Ford and Brosnan, it came naturally. She believes this ease comes from mutual respect and a shared commitment to the work. Mirren and Brosnan had actually crossed paths before, but MobLand is their first time properly acting together. According to her, his involvement in the project helped convince her to take the role. She also praised Tom Hardy, who plays an important role in the series, calling him one of the actors she’d long wanted to work with.

Now playing Maeve Harrigan, a fierce matriarch in a modern-day crime family, Mirren says she’s enjoying every moment. “I love Maeve,” she said. “It’s like putting on a favorite coat—you feel strong, comfortable, and ready for anything.”