John Voight discussed a tariff proposal he shared with President Trump, stating that the president’s goal is to revive the essence of old Hollywood through international film taxes.
“He wants us to bring back the old Hollywood,” the “Midnight Cowboy” actor remarked about Trump. The show featuring this interview is set to debut on Wednesday.
“This shouldn’t be about politics,” Voight, who is 86, added.
“I’m not aware of the political affiliations of those we’ve engaged with. Many discussions have occurred. I don’t categorize them by party, and if we can develop something actionable, he supports us,” the Oscar-winning actor noted.
Voight’s comments align with Trump’s announcement regarding a proposed 100% tariff on foreign films made public recently.
“It’s a national security threat,” Trump described, claiming that other nations offer various incentives that disconnect filmmakers and studios from the U.S.
Voight mentioned that he and producer Stephen Paul had already brought up the tariff concept to Trump prior to the president’s public endorsement of the idea this week.
Despite skepticism from some in Hollywood and Washington towards Trump’s tariff push, Voight told Variety that he and Paul have received a “lot of positive feedback” from many.
As a well-known supporter of the arts, Voight, who received the National Medal of Arts from Trump in 2019, expressed gratitude for Trump’s attention to Hollywood and film. “It truly needs support,” he said.
Voight added, “He genuinely cares for Hollywood in that respect. Action is needed; we can’t end up deteriorating like Detroit did.”
Trump frequently expresses his aspiration to return the arts, film, and entertainment sectors to what he describes as their “golden age.”
In January, Trump announced plans to appoint Voight, along with actors Mel Gibson and Sylvester Stallone, as “special ambassadors” for Hollywood.
He stated, “These three incredibly talented individuals will serve as my eyes and ears. I will follow their advice. We will see a revival of Hollywood, much like the revival of America!”
Trump also referenced a significant move to name himself as the chairman of the Kennedy Center board. He mentioned plans to replace various board members, including the current chairman, who he felt did not align with his vision for the future of arts and culture.
“The best times are still ahead!” Trump declared.
