Jon Voight, the renowned actor celebrated for his captivating performances in films such as Midnight Cowboy and Coming Home, has recently stirred controversy in the entertainment industry by declining a $20 million offer to appear in an NFL commercial alongside Robert De Niro. In a statement that has elicited both admiration and criticism, Voight asserted that he would “never work with a woke creep,” clearly indicating his disapproval of the increasing influence of “woke” culture in Hollywood and beyond.
The proposed advertisement, which would have featured Voight and De Niro—two of the most esteemed actors in the industry—was viewed as a lucrative opportunity for both the NFL and the involved stars. However, Voight’s refusal to engage in the project underscores a significant divide within the entertainment sector regarding political correctness, social justice movements, and what some perceive as a “woke” agenda.
A staunch conservative, Voight has been outspoken in his opposition to what he sees as the encroachment of progressive ideals in both Hollywood and American society at large. His decision to turn down the NFL advertisement follows a series of public statements in which he criticized the growing prevalence of progressive politics in the entertainment realm. Sources close to Voight indicate that his primary concern regarding the commercial was De Niro’s involvement, as the latter has become a vocal critic of conservative values and frequently aligns himself with left-leaning causes.
While Voight did not specify what aspects of De Niro he found objectionable, his choice of words—referring to De Niro as a “woke creep”—implies a profound frustration with what he perceives as the Hollywood elite’s adoption of a politically charged, socially conscious agenda. Voight’s rejection of the lucrative advertisement offer signals his unwillingness to compromise on his personal beliefs, even at the cost of significant financial gain.The term “woke” has emerged as a contentious issue in the ongoing culture wars, denoting an increased awareness of social inequalities and a dedication to addressing injustices, particularly those concerning race, gender, and sexual orientation. Critics, such as Voight, contend that this “wokeness” has resulted in an excessive focus on political correctness, which they argue suppresses free expression and creativity. Voight has consistently voiced his opposition to this trend, and his recent actions further amplify the ongoing discourse regarding the intersection of politics with art and advertising. Conversely, De Niro, a long-time proponent of progressive causes, remains committed to utilizing his platform to advocate for social change. In recent years, the two actors have taken markedly different approaches, with De Niro emerging as a prominent figure in Hollywood’s political activism, particularly in opposition to former President Donald Trump and other conservative figures. Although their professional paths have seldom intersected lately, their ideological rift appears to be more pronounced than ever.
The rejection of a $20 million offer has ignited a broader discussion about the tension between commercial success and personal values within Hollywood. Many have criticized Voight’s decision as a lost opportunity to capitalize on his celebrity for a substantial financial gain, while others commend him for adhering to his principles at a time when many feel pressured to conform to prevailing cultural trends. Voight’s refusal to engage with what he perceives as “woke” influences serves as a reminder that the political divide within the entertainment industry remains unresolved, and the conflict between traditional values and progressive ideals shows no signs of diminishing. Ultimately, Voight’s decisive rejection of the NFL commercial transcends the specific project, reflecting a more extensive commentary on the current cultural landscape.
