'He is my day one': Matthew Lillard’s daughter responds to Tarantino’s harsh comments about her dad

Being a celebrity isn't easy; with love and admiration comes criticism that often feels too humiliating. "Scooby-Doo" star Matthew Lillard, along with fellow actors Paul Dano and Owen Wilson, recently experienced it, except it wasn't from the audience but from an Oscar-winning filmmaker — Quentin Tarantino. During a podcast with Bret Easton Ellis, he was asked about his top 10 movies of the 21st century, and Tarantino was quick enough to take a dig at Matthew, saying he didn't care about him. After the "Thirteen Ghosts" actor himself addressed the controversy at a public event, his child, Ace Lillard (@_ace_lillard), also came to his defense through an emotional post on Instagram.

They praised their dad, calling him a hero both on and off the screen. "Not only is my dad the kind of creative I strive to be, but he is the kind of decent, humble human I hope to become," Ace added. They mentioned how their father's work has helped uplift young people like Ace from the queer community. "What I admire most is the way my dad truly connects with people who find refuge in his characters and his art," they continued. Next, Ace took a shot at Tarantino, saying it's sad to see someone they have full respect for downgrade their dad's potential publicly. "Creating is meant to lift us all and celebrate all of us, not just a selected few," they explained. Moving further, Ace mentioned the busy year Matthew has had amid a career resurgence and concluded by saying, "He is my day one, and I will always be fiercely proud of him."

Tarantino's remarks have taken over social media, drawing immense backlash from Matthew's fan club. In fact, the "Without a Paddle" actor also mentioned the controversy while at an event at GalaxyCon in Columbus, Ohio, on December 5. "Quentin Tarantino this week said he didn't like me as an actor," he said, prompting boos from the audience. "Eh, whatever. Who gives a s***," he continued. Matthew confessed that his remarks, however, did hurt his feelings. "I'm very popular in this room. I'm not very popular in Hollywood. Two totally different microcosms, right? And so, you know, it's humbling, and it hurts," he added. The actor also spoke about how nobody would make such a remark to a top-line actor in Hollywood, like Tom Cruise, reflecting on the unfair treatment in the industry.

Meanwhile, reacting to Ace's post, @theaustinbitikofer commented, "Your dad has been my hero for years, since I was a child. I was so nervous to do my Shaggy voice for him when I met him for the first time because so many fans do that. I didn't want to be like the others; I wanted to stand out. He said, 'Like, dude, why are you coming for my job, man?' And then said I did a really good job. His praise and hug meant the world to me. He helped teach me to be myself and be as good a person as I can be."

Similarly, @officialcierraa wrote, "As someone who is on the autism spectrum, your father has made me feel seen and safe every time I have met him. He is a strong man, and I KNOW he’s taking this professionally, especially for his own mental health. Hollywood is hell nowadays, and I wish it was different, as an aspiring actress. I hope he takes his time and reflects on how far he has come as an actor. He deserves the world and much more."

You can follow Ace Lillard (@_ace_lillard) on Instagram for lifestyle content.

More on Scoop Upworthy

Dad teared up after reading note 8-year-old daughter left him before going to her mom's

Little girl asks her father how he will feel when she moves out. His reply will stay with her forever

Millie Bobby Brown stands up to bullies targeting her looks: 'I will not be shamed for how I look'