“I’m not proud I did that”: Why Did Martin Freeman Hit His Kids? – Dark Side of Sherlock Star, Revealed
Martin Freeman, the immensely successful British actor is known for his attention to detail and versatility. Apart from being a celebrated actor, the Sherlock star is also a parent to two children.
In a recent interview, Freeman admitted to hitting his kids and verbally abusing them on multiple occasions. This is an illegal action and something that is highly looked down upon. Freeman’s confession reveals a darker side of his personality. However, the Black Panther star did have an explanation.
Martin Freeman Admits to Smacking His Children
The glitz and glam of the industry often make it difficult for one to see the human side of a celebrity. Public figures seldom speak about their wrongdoings or less honorable acts. Martin Freeman’s confession of hitting his children is one such rare occurrence.
The Secret Invasion actor has two kids, a son and a daughter with his previous partner Amanda Abbington. Speaking with The Times about his upcoming project Breeders, where he plays an angry father, Freeman opened up on real-life instances where he was an angry father too. Freeman said:
“One of the rules is, don’t smack your kids or call them little f******. But you know, I’ve done both. I’ve probably smacked twice, but I’ve called them little f***ers more than twice.”
The actor further added that the idea of his actions being problematic is not lost on him.
“I know I’m not supposed to do it, but there are so many images about how all just has to be brilliant that it makes people feel bad.”
Freeman is hinting at the present scenario where the impact of parenting on children is highlighted. This causes many parents to feel pressure to do a perfect job and sometimes, being too harsh on themselves.
The Hollywood actor further rationalizes the matter by saying:
“Because it’s not brilliant. I mean, it is- it’s the best thing I’ll do. But that doesn’t mean it’s not really hard. This idea you only ever rationalize with a toddler? Genuinely, good luck. If you can do that, God go with you. Amazing.”
Freeman seems to be voicing some serious parental frustration. Keeping it real.
Martin Freeman On the Struggles of Being A Parent
Freeman clarified that the smacking and swearing were occasional instances. It is human to sometimes lose patience or as Freeman put it, when one is at the “end of my rope”. The actor acknowledges his shortcomings and the impact his behavior can have on his kids. He says:
“Obviously, it’s a good idea not to hit your kids. But at some point, you’re going to do things wrong, and, 20 years on, your kids are going to ask why you did that.”
Surprisingly, while the actor sees the issue with his actions, he does not overrule the possibility of something like it happening again. He said: “It’s inevitable. And with smacking- I’m not proud I did that, but I have. I don’t think it’s a policy. And I’ll do it again.”
Breeders is available for streaming on Hulu.
