Actor and filmmaker Mel Gibson expressed shock after being named a special envoy to Hollywood under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration. Gibson, known for his iconic roles in films like The Passion of the Christ: Resurrection and Braveheart, shared his reaction after Trump’s announcement.
“I got the tweet at the same time as all of you and was just as surprised,” Gibson said in a statement to Variety. “Nevertheless, I heed the call. My duty as a citizen is to give any help and insight I can.”
He added humorously, “Any chance the position comes with an Ambassador’s residence?” referencing the loss of his Los Angeles home to recent wildfires.
Trump announced the appointment of Gibson alongside actors Jon Voight and Sylvester Stallone as part of his administration’s efforts to revitalize the American film industry.
In a statement, Trump praised the trio for their talent and patriotism, declaring them “Special Envoys to Hollywood” with a mission to restore the industry’s global dominance.
“It is my honor to announce Jon Voight, Mel Gibson, and Sylvester Stallone as Special Ambassadors to a great but very troubled place, Hollywood, California,” Trump stated.
“They will bring Hollywood, which has lost much business over the last four years to foreign countries, BACK—BIGGER, BETTER, AND STRONGER THAN EVER BEFORE!”
Trump emphasized the goal of producing more films domestically and described the appointees as his “eyes and ears” in the entertainment industry.
He added, “It will again be, like the United States of America itself, The Golden Age of Hollywood!”
Gibson, who endorsed Trump during the 2024 election after previously criticizing him in 2016, has grown vocal in his support for the president-elect.
Following the loss of his home in the Los Angeles wildfires, Gibson echoed Trump’s criticism of California Governor Gavin Newsom’s handling of the disaster.
The appointment reflects Trump’s broader strategy to bolster domestic industries and leverage high-profile figures to advance his administration’s agenda. As part of their roles, Gibson, Voight, and Stallone are expected to advocate for policies aimed at revitalizing Hollywood’s economic and cultural influence.