President-elect Donald Trump has announced the appointment of actors Mel Gibson, Sylvester Stallone, and Jon Voight as “special ambassadors” tasked with revitalizing Hollywood and bringing film production back to the United States. Trump made the announcement on his social media platform, Truth Social, describing the initiative as a bold step toward restoring what he calls the “Golden Age of Hollywood.”
Trump praised the trio as industry icons with the vision and experience to spearhead his administration’s plan to reduce outsourcing in the entertainment sector. “Sylvester Stallone, Mel Gibson, and Jon Voight are some of Hollywood’s greatest legends,” Trump said. “They will be my eyes and ears, working with industry leaders to make Hollywood bigger, better, and stronger than ever before.”
A Vision for Domestic Film Revival
The initiative aims to address the growing trend of American film productions being outsourced to foreign countries due to lower costs and tax incentives abroad. Trump’s plan includes exploring policy changes that could incentivize studios to keep production domestic, such as tax breaks, grants, and enhanced support for small and independent filmmakers.
According to Trump, the ambassadors will consult with studio executives, union leaders, and local governments to identify practical solutions for revitalizing the U.S. film industry. The team is also expected to focus on promoting American storytelling and preserving Hollywood’s cultural legacy.
Hollywood Icons Respond
The newly appointed ambassadors expressed their enthusiasm for the roles. Stallone, known for iconic franchises such as Rocky and Rambo, stated that he is honored to contribute to the effort. “Hollywood has been a beacon of creativity and inspiration for generations, and I want to help ensure its future remains bright here in the U.S.,” he said.
Mel Gibson, an award-winning actor and director, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of fostering domestic talent. Jon Voight, a long-time Trump supporter and Academy Award-winning actor, said he views this role as an opportunity to preserve the values that have made American cinema globally influential.
Critics Question the Appointments
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions from industry experts and the public. Critics have raised questions about the qualifications of the appointees to address complex economic and industry-specific challenges. Some film industry professionals argue that a broader task force, including economists and production specialists, would be more effective.
Others, however, have welcomed the move, viewing it as a signal that the Trump administration is prioritizing the arts and entertainment sector. Supporters believe the appointees’ star power and industry connections could bring much-needed attention to the challenges facing Hollywood.
Next Steps and Broader Goals
While specific policy proposals have yet to be outlined, the appointments are seen as a first step in a larger effort to reshape the domestic film industry. Trump’s plan is expected to align with his broader economic agenda, which emphasizes reducing outsourcing and strengthening American industries.
The special ambassadors will reportedly begin meeting with key stakeholders in the entertainment industry within weeks of Trump’s inauguration. The initiative is expected to culminate in a comprehensive report recommending strategies for bolstering Hollywood’s domestic operations.
As discussions begin, Trump and his team are calling for bipartisan support to ensure the success of this ambitious vision.
