In an unexpected turn of events, veteran actor Jon Voight has turned down a lucrative $20 million deal that would have tied him to an NFL promotion alongside legendary actor Robert De Niro. Voight’s decision has sent shockwaves across Hollywood and the sports industry, sparking debates over his outspoken remarks about the “woke” culture.

The deal, which sources reveal was orchestrated by a major marketing firm, would have seen Voight and De Niro as the faces of a high-profile campaign promoting inclusivity and diversity within the NFL. While De Niro was reportedly enthusiastic about the project, Voight declined the offer, citing personal principles.
“I don’t work with the woke,” Voight reportedly said during a private meeting, according to insiders familiar with the negotiation. “I have no interest in promoting an agenda that goes against what I believe in.”
Voight’s refusal has reignited conversations about Hollywood’s growing divide over sociopolitical issues.
The campaign was set to focus on bridging divides, featuring a star-studded lineup of celebrities to promote unity within the NFL’s expanding global audience. The inclusion of two veteran actors like Voight and De Niro was meant to symbolize a union of differing perspectives—an ironic twist given the fallout.
While De Niro has remained silent on the matter, sources close to him have hinted at frustration over the collapse of the deal. “Robert was all in. This was supposed to be a project that brought people together, but clearly, not everyone saw it that way,” a source noted.
Voight, known for his conservative political stance, has never shied away from expressing his opinions. Over the years, the Oscar-winning actor has been vocal about his disdain for what he describes as a “woke agenda” in Hollywood and beyond.
In contrast, De Niro has championed progressive values, often using his platform to criticize conservative politics. This ideological clash between the two actors only adds to the intrigue surrounding the failed collaboration.
Social media has been abuzz since news of Voight’s decision broke. Some fans praised his commitment to his beliefs, applauding him for standing firm in an industry they perceive as increasingly one-sided.
“Finally, someone in Hollywood who isn’t afraid to speak their truth,” one Twitter user commented.
Others, however, criticized Voight for letting personal politics interfere with a potentially groundbreaking project. “This could have been about unity, but instead, it’s just another example of division,” another tweet read.
While the NFL campaign is reportedly being restructured without Voight, questions remain about how his decision will impact his career and reputation. De Niro, on the other hand, is said to be moving forward with his involvement, with a new co-star expected to be announced soon.
For now, Voight appears unbothered by the controversy. In a brief statement to the press, he doubled down on his stance, saying, “Sometimes you have to make tough choices to stay true to yourself.”
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Jon Voight’s decision is more than just a rejection of a contract—it’s a bold statement in a divided cultural landscape. Whether that statement will resonate positively or negatively remains to be seen.