Donald Trump Appoints Sylvester Stallone, Mel Gibson, and Jon Voight as Hollywood Ambassadors; Gibson Expresses Surprise at the Announcement, “Nevertheless, I Heed the Call”

Sylvester Stallone, Mel Gibson, and Jon Voight have recently been designated as “Special Ambassadors”for Hollywood by President-elect Donald Trump. This surprising announcement was made through Trump’s social media platform, Truth Social, without prior knowledge from the actors themselves. Stallone, Gibson, and Voight are well-known figures in the film industry, having contributed significantly to cinema with their influential roles over many years. Currently, they are also engaged in exciting projects: Stallone is working on the development of Tulsa King Season 3, Gibson is preparing for the sequel to The Passion of the Christ, and Voight has recently starred in the biopic Regan.

As detailed by Variety, the President-elect expressed his dissatisfaction with the current state of the film industry, which he believes has seen a decline in business predominantly due to foreign competition. In his announcement, Trump emphasized that he views these actors as pivotal in revitalizing Hollywood, stating they will lead a new movement to restore it as “The Golden Age of Hollywood.”

It is my honor to announce Jon Voight, Mel Gibson, and Sylvester Stallone, to be Special Ambassadors to a great but very troubled place, Hollywood, California. They will serve as Special Envoys to me for the purpose of bringing Hollywood, which has lost much business over the last four years to Foreign Countries, BACK—BIGGER, BETTER, AND STRONGER THAN EVER BEFORE! These three very talented people will be my eyes and ears, and I will get done what they suggest. It will again be, like The United States of America itself, The Golden Age of Hollywood!

Subsequent to the announcement, Gibson responded by expressing his surprise, revealing that he became aware of his appointed role through the same tweet as the public. Nevertheless, he indicated his willingness to contribute positively, stating he would “give any help and insight”possible for this unexpected position. His lighthearted comment about the absence of an “Ambassador’s residence”underscores the peculiar nature of the announcement.

I got the tweet at the same time as all of you and was just as surprised. Nevertheless, I heed the call. My duty as a citizen is to give any help and insight I can. Any chance the position comes with an Ambassador’s residence?

Implications of Trump’s Hollywood Ambassadors on the Industry’s Future

Uncertain Roles and Future Directions

Despite the fanfare surrounding the announcement, specific details about the expected roles and responsibilities of Stallone, Gibson, and Voight remain sparse. Historically, all three actors have publicly supported Trump, particularly during his 2024 campaign, yet it remains unclear whether they had been consulted before this new appointment. Gibson’s reaction raises questions about Stallone and Voight’s prior knowledge of the situation.

With the absence of detailed plans, there is speculation that these actors might be pivotal in promoting conservative ideologies within Hollywood, aligning their creative endeavors with Trump’s vision. It is anticipated that soon we may hear more from Stallone and Voight regarding their perspectives on this unexpected opportunity. The timing of this announcement may also connect to renewed interest in the upcoming Trump biopic The Apprentice, with actor Sebastian Stan recently earning a Golden Globe nomination for his portrayal of the former president, thereby further intertwining Trump’s image with Hollywood.

Analysis of Trump’s Hollywood Ambassador Decision

Intent on Industry Transformation

Trump’s decision to appoint three actors known for their conservative leanings as “Hollywood Ambassadors”indicates a clear intention to reshape the film landscape according to his administration’s values. Although concrete details on the resources that will accompany this initiative are yet to be disclosed, it is evident that he seeks to support these figures in a more structured capacity. The unexpected nature of the announcement suggests the plans might still be in development and could evolve as their roles become clearer.

Source: Variety

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