Malcolm McDowell shares honest views on daughter-in-law Lily Collins’ hit series Emily in Paris

Malcolm McDowell has opened up about his true feelings regarding Emily in Paris, the globally popular Netflix series starring his daughter-in-law Lily Collins.

Collins, 36, is best known for her portrayal of Emily Cooper, a young American marketing executive navigating life and love in Paris. While the show has gained a massive fan base worldwide, McDowell, 82, admitted that the romantic-comedy drama is not exactly his cup of tea.

Speaking to People magazine, McDowell candidly shared, “To be honest with you, it’s not my kind of thing, and Lily knows that.” Despite his lack of interest in the show’s genre, the veteran actor was quick to praise Collins, emphasizing his admiration for her both as an actress and as a person.

“I’m the biggest fan of my daughter-in-law. I think she’s absolutely one of the great actresses,” McDowell said warmly.

The A Clockwork Orange star also highlighted what makes Collins stand out on screen. “She has such a beautiful quality,” he explained. “As far as I’m concerned, when she’s on the screen, there’s nobody else on it, because she’s not only a good actress, but she has a beautiful quality. I suppose it’s a sort of charisma.”

McDowell’s comments come at a time when he himself is back in the spotlight with his upcoming project Et Tu. Known for his decades-spanning career in film and television, McDowell has often been praised for his bold and versatile performances. His openness about not resonating with Emily in Paris reflects the generational gap in viewing preferences but also underscores his deep respect and affection for Collins.

The remarks also add a personal layer to the global conversation around Emily in Paris. Since its debut in 2020, the series has been both loved and criticized—celebrated for its fashion, charm, and lighthearted storytelling, while also sparking debates over cultural stereotypes and romanticized portrayals of Parisian life.

For Collins, however, the show has been a career-defining role. Apart from its critical reception, Emily in Paris has given her international recognition, millions of fans, and even Emmy nominations.

The actress married director Charlie McDowell, Malcolm McDowell’s son, in 2021. Their wedding, held in Colorado, was widely covered in the media, with Collins often sharing glimpses of their married life on social media.

Meanwhile, fans of the Netflix hit can look forward to fresh episodes soon. The new season of Emily in Paris is scheduled to release on December 18, 2025, promising more glamour, romance, and Parisian adventures.

As for McDowell, while Emily in Paris may not align with his personal taste, his affectionate praise for Lily Collins shows that family bonds remain stronger than differences in viewing choices. His words underline the unique balance between personal preferences and professional admiration within Hollywood’s tight-knit circles.