Billy Bob Thornton, the celebrated actor known for his roles in films like “Sling Blade,” “Monster’s Ball,” and “Bad Santa,” has recently addressed the evolving landscape of celebrity culture during an appearance on “The Joe Rogan Experience.” At 70, while Thornton has never taken home an Oscar for Best Actor, he possesses a rich filmography that many would aspire to emulate.
During his conversation, Thornton expressed his admiration for comedian Ricky Gervais and his memorable monologue at the 2020 Golden Globes, where Gervais critiqued celebrities for using their award speeches as platforms to push political agendas. This sentiment resonates with Thornton, who believes that actors today are often overly exposed, thus diminishing the mystique that earlier generations of actors held.
The dialogue turned to how modern actors frequently engage with fans through social media and public appearances, which Thornton suggests detracts from their allure. He echoed Rogan’s sentiments regarding celebrities who take political stances, suggesting it can alienate audiences. “I don’t go to the awards show and talk about it when I’m getting my award,” Thornton remarked, emphasizing the idea that many celebrities lack the depth of knowledge to comment meaningfully on political issues.
Furthermore, he described himself as “radically moderate,” highlighting a cautious approach towards political discourse. As a testament to his charitable nature, he shared that he supports various children’s charities, yet prefers to keep these contributions private.
Thornton is also set to reappear in the second season of “Landman,” a series from the Taylor Sheridan universe, which will premiere on Paramount+ on November 16. This new venture signifies Thornton’s continued influence and relevance within the industry, reaffirming that while he may not have secured an Oscar, his presence in film and television remains impactful.