4t Academy Award winner Billy Bob Thornton slams celebrities for turning awards ceremony speeches into political rants, telling them “stick to what it is” and just thank the folks who handed them the award.

Billy Bob Thornton, the Academy Award-winning actor and filmmaker, recently stirred controversy by openly criticizing celebrities who use their awards ceremony speeches as platforms for political messages. In a candid interview, Thornton urged stars to “stick to what it is” — meaning the moment should be about gratitude and recognition, not political discourse.

Thornton, known for his sharp wit and straightforward opinions, expressed frustration with the increasing trend of turning acceptance speeches into political rants. He emphasized that awards ceremonies are celebrations of achievement in film and entertainment, and using that stage for agendas distracts from the original intent.

“When you win an award, it’s a moment to honor the craft, the people who worked with you, and those who believed in you,” Thornton said. “It’s not a place to launch political campaigns or social ideology. Just thank the folks who handed you the award — that’s what the moment is for.”

His comments come amid growing debates over the role of politics in Hollywood award shows, where many celebrities in recent years have used their platform to highlight causes ranging from social justice and environmental issues to political activism. While some audiences applaud this engagement, others, including Thornton, feel it detracts from the essence of the event.

Thornton reflected on his own experiences in the industry, pointing out that award moments should maintain respect for the artistry and the collaborative spirit behind filmmaking. “I’ve seen too many speeches where the message gets lost, and it’s hard not to feel the disconnect between the celebration of art and the message being pushed,” he said.

The actor’s blunt stance also highlights a broader cultural conversation about the boundaries between entertainment and politics. Awards ceremonies like the Oscars have long been platforms not only for honoring talent but also for cultural commentary. The challenge, Thornton suggests, is finding balance without overshadowing the purpose of the event.

Some celebrities argue that their visibility at such high-profile moments obliges them to speak out on important issues. However, Thornton pushes back, suggesting there are more appropriate forums for political discussions outside the acceptance stage.

“In the end, when you’re handed that golden statue, the audience is there to celebrate your achievement—not debate political viewpoints. There’s a time and place for everything,” said Thornton. He reiterated that simply expressing appreciation for colleagues, families, and fans maintains the dignity and focus of the ceremony.

His perspective has sparked mixed reactions online. Supporters praise Thornton for calling attention to what they see as unnecessary politicization, while critics argue that ignoring societal issues in high-profile spaces misses opportunities for meaningful dialogue.

Despite the divided opinions, Billy Bob Thornton’s comments underscore ongoing tensions in Hollywood about how celebrities wield their influence and the complex expectations audiences place on public figures.

As awards seasons continue to unfold, the debate over the proper use of acceptance speeches shows no sign of fading, with figures like Thornton urging a return to the basics: honoring craft, showing gratitude, and keeping politics separate from moments meant to celebrate artistic excellence.