Sylvester Stallone Reacts to Trump’s Surprise Appointment as Hollywood Ambassador
Sylvester Stallone recently expressed his surprise at being named a special ambassador to Hollywood by President Donald Trump. The announcement came just days before Trump’s second inauguration in January 2025, with Stallone included alongside Mel Gibson and Jon Voight as “Special Envoys” charged with advising on revitalizing the American film and television industry.
In an interview with The Sunday Times, Stallone revealed that he found out about the appointment while watching television. “I was watching TV one night, and they go, ‘So Stallone and Mel Gibson and Jon Voight will be …’ And I went, ‘What?’” Stallone said, indicating that he was blindsided by the announcement.
Initially hesitant, Stallone voiced concerns about the feasibility of the role, reasoning that Hollywood operates like feudal states with established power dynamics among studios. “You don’t go in and tell six studios how to do things,” he said, explaining that neither he nor his fellow ambassadors were positioned to influence the corporate landscape.
Stallone later conveyed his decision to Trump, expressing his gratitude but ultimately declining the role. “I said thank you and ciao, because it’s impossible,” he stated, emphasizing that Hollywood evolves on its own.
Trump’s January 16 post announcing the trio indicated his hope for these actors to play a crucial role in bringing Hollywood back “BIGGER, BETTER, AND STRONGER THAN EVER BEFORE!”
Interestingly, Mel Gibson also expressed surprise at being named an ambassador, stating he received the news at the same time as the public. Despite his initial shock, he mentioned his willingness to assist where possible, even joking about the potential for an ambassador’s residence.
While Stallone may not have embraced his ambassadorial role, he has maintained a friendly relationship with Trump. After the November 2024 election, he even praised the president at a gala, drawing comparisons between Trump and historical figures like George Washington.
Jon Voight, who actively supported Trump’s agenda and embraced his ambassador role, has been working to advocate for policies aimed at boosting American film production, including a federal tax incentive. He noted that both Stallone and Gibson have been busy but engaged in the effort.
As Trump has pushed for legislative solutions to stimulate the American entertainment industry, his appointment of Stallone, Gibson, and Voight reflects an ongoing interest in tying Hollywood more closely to national interests, though Stallone’s participation remains uncertain.
