George Clooney says Trump should create incentives, not tariffs, for movie industry

During a recent appearance in London, ahead of the annual Albies awards ceremony dedicated to human rights defenders, actor George Clooney offered his perspective on a key industry challenge. Clooney, who co-founded the awards with his wife Amal, expressed concerns about US President Donald Trump’s suggestion of imposing a 100% tariff on films produced outside the United States, calling it an incorrect approach to a legitimate problem.

While acknowledging President Trump's observation that movie industry jobs are indeed relocating from California, Clooney pinpointed the core issue differently. He argued that this exodus isn't a result of foreign production itself, but rather a lack of competitive tax incentives and rebates within California, unlike those successfully implemented in states such as New York.

Instead of punitive tariffs, Clooney proposed a constructive alternative: a federal incentive program. He suggested this program should be robust enough to match the attractive incentives currently offered in states like Louisiana, New Jersey, and New York, believing such a move would significantly bolster the American film industry and keep jobs at home.

Beyond the policy discussion, the Albies ceremony also celebrated remarkable individuals for their dedication to human rights. This year's honorees included Melinda French Gates, recognized for her unwavering commitment to women's health and gender equality; veteran media leader Marty Baron, formerly of the Washington Post and Boston Globe; and Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, for his innovative work in stabilizing non-profits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also honored were Fatou Baldeh, a global advocate against female genital mutilation, and Jose Ruben Zamora, a Guatemalan journalist lauded for his three-decade career investigating corruption.