In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through Hollywood, veteran actors Sam Elliott and Kurt Russell have officially joined Clint Eastwood’s newly-formed Anti-Woke Actors Guild, a group that advocates for traditional values in the entertainment industry and rejects the growing influence of “woke” culture. The move has sparked major controversy, with Hollywood elites voicing their displeasure and accusing the group of undermining the progress made in diversity and representation.

The Anti-Woke Actors Guild, spearheaded by legendary actor and director Clint Eastwood, aims to provide a platform for actors and filmmakers who oppose what they see as the stifling effects of “woke” culture on creativity and storytelling. The guild is committed to upholding artistic freedom, rejecting censorship, and embracing the core principles of entertainment as a form of universal expression, free from political or social agendas.
“I’ve seen a lot of changes in this business, and not all of them are for the better,” Eastwood stated in a recent interview. “The arts should inspire, not be dictated by political correctness or groupthink. We’re here to make sure stories are told without fear of censorship or forced ideology.”
Elliott, known for his no-nonsense approach both on and off-screen, and Russell, celebrated for his tough-guy roles, both expressed their frustrations with the direction Hollywood has taken in recent years. The two actors were drawn to Eastwood’s vision of preserving a space for artistic freedom and rejecting what they view as an overreach by “woke” movements.
“I’ve been in this industry long enough to see how politics can change the very essence of what we do,” Elliott said during a press conference announcing his membership. “I’m here because I believe in the power of storytelling, not in pushing agendas.”
Russell echoed these sentiments, adding, “I’ve been in Hollywood long enough to know that true art should be free from outside pressures. It’s about authenticity, not pandering to trends.”
The reaction to the guild’s formation has been swift and heated, with many within the entertainment industry accusing the group of taking a backward step. Critics argue that the guild represents an attack on the progress Hollywood has made toward inclusivity and social justice.
“These are actors who have built their careers on being the embodiment of toxic masculinity,” said one industry insider who wished to remain anonymous. “Now they’re trying to create a safe haven for regressive views. It’s a slap in the face to the work we’ve all done to create a more inclusive industry.”
Additionally, social media has been flooded with mixed reactions, with many fans and colleagues of Eastwood, Elliott, and Russell either supporting or condemning their decision.
This move marks a deeper division within Hollywood, where debates over diversity, inclusion, and political correctness have become increasingly prominent. On one side, proponents of “woke” culture argue that Hollywood must evolve to reflect the diverse world we live in, while others like Eastwood, Elliott, and Russell believe that creativity and artistry should be free from political pressures.
The formation of the Anti-Woke Actors Guild represents the latest chapter in Hollywood’s ongoing battle over the future of entertainment, with no clear resolution in sight. As the debate intensifies, one thing remains certain: this controversial move has made Sam Elliott, Kurt Russell, and Clint Eastwood two of the most polarizing figures in Hollywood today.
The guild’s future remains uncertain, but as the “woke” debate rages on, Hollywood will likely continue to see more major rifts and alliances formed around this hot-button issue.