Malcolm McDowell Says He Isn't a Fan of Daughter-in-Law Lily Collins’ Emily in Paris — But Admires Her Deeply

 Los Angeles, August 2025 — In a candid and refreshingly honest interview with People, legendary actor Malcolm McDowell, 82, revealed that he's not a fan of the Netflix hit Emily in Paris, starring his daughter-in-law Lily Collins. Still, his admiration for her talent and screen presence shines through.

Not His Cup of Tea — But Her Biggest Fan

McDowell admitted without hesitating: “To be honest with you, it's not my kind of thing, and Lily knows that.” Despite this, he quickly shifted to praise: “But I'm the biggest fan of my daughter-in-law. I think she's absolutely one of the great actresses.”His words highlight a loving balance: being honest about his preferences while unreservedly supporting her.

Charisma That Lights Up the Screen

He didn't stop at just gratitude. McDowell lavished praise on Collins’s aura and on-screen magnetism: “The aura around her is so beautiful... when she's on the screen, there's nobody else on it... she has a beautiful quality. I suppose it's a sort of charisma.”

Tourism Thanks to ‘Emily in Paris’

Beyond acting chops, McDowell credits Lily’s show with real-world impact. He’s convinced that Emily in Paris has inspired tourism spikes in Paris, remarking that the city owes Lily “a great debt” for the visual allure she’s brought to audiences worldwide.

About the Show & the Couple

Emily in Paris, created by Darren Star, debuted in October 2020 and follows Lily Collins as Emily Cooper, an American navigating work and love in Paris. The show’s upcoming fifth season is currently filming with a yet-to-be-announced release date. Off-screen, Lily married director Charlie McDowell—son of Malcolm McDowell and Mary Steenburgen—in September 2021. Earlier this year, the couple welcomed their first child, daughter Tove Jane, via surrogate.

More Words of Affection

This isn’t the first time McDowell has admired Lily’s grace. In a 2024 interview, he likened her to Audrey Hepburn, noting her natural charisma and timeless elegance.

Why This Matters

McDowell’s remarks are striking not just for their honesty but for their warmth. In a media environment often filled with political correctness or guarded messages, it's refreshing to see such genuine expression—from a father-in-law calling out what he does and doesn’t enjoy, yet lifting his daughter-in-law to the highest regard.

In Summary

Malcolm McDowell may not tune into Emily in Paris himself, but there's no doubt where his loyalties lie. With honesty and grace, he reminded audiences that while our tastes may differ, love and admiration for the talented people in our lives remain unwavering.