In January 2025, President-elect Donald Trump appointed three prominent actors—Mel Gibson, Sylvester Stallone, and Jon Voight—as “Special Ambassadors” to Hollywood. This announcement was made via Trump’s social media platform, Truth Social. The purpose of this appointment is to address the challenges faced by the Hollywood film industry, which has experienced significant business losses over recent years due to various factors including the COVID-19 pandemic and economic downturns.
Background of the Appointment
The announcement came just days before Trump’s inauguration and highlighted his intention to revitalize Hollywood, which he described as a “great but very troubled place.” Trump emphasized that these ambassadors would serve as his “eyes and ears,” suggesting that their roles would involve providing insights and recommendations on how to restore Hollywood’s prominence in the global entertainment landscape. He expressed a desire for Hollywood to return “BIGGER, BETTER, AND STRONGER THAN EVER BEFORE!”
Reactions from the Appointees
Mel Gibson expressed surprise at his appointment, stating that he learned about it simultaneously with the public. He indicated his willingness to contribute positively to the industry during this challenging time. In a light-hearted comment, he inquired whether the position would come with an ambassadorial residence.
Jon Voight also commented on his new role, reflecting on his long-standing connection to Hollywood’s Golden Age and expressing optimism about restoring its former glory with Trump’s support. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by the industry but conveyed a sense of resilience among those involved.
Sylvester Stallone has been a vocal supporter of Trump in recent years and previously introduced him at events. His involvement in this initiative aligns with his public persona as an influential figure within Hollywood.
Challenges Facing Hollywood
The U.S. film and television industries have encountered numerous hurdles recently. The COVID-19 pandemic led to significant disruptions in production schedules and box office revenues. Additionally, strikes by actors and writers have further complicated matters for studios trying to recover financially. The domestic box office revenue saw a decline in 2024 compared to previous years, indicating ongoing struggles within the industry.
Trump’s appointments of Gibson, Stallone, and Voight reflect an effort not only to leverage their celebrity status but also their political alignment with him as supporters who can advocate for changes beneficial to Hollywood’s recovery.
