- Samuel L. Jackson has been named to TIME’s prestigious 2025 list of the 100 most influential climate leaders.
- The recognition comes not from a film role but from a viral ad for the Swedish power company Vattenfall, which champions wind energy.
- The commercial reached an astonishing 600 million viewers in just four days and was widely seen as a critique of anti-wind-farm stances.
- In the ad, Jackson powerfully describes wind turbines as a “middle finger to CO2.”
A New Role: From Screen Legend to Climate Catalyst
In a move that has captivated millions, Hollywood icon Samuel L. Jackson has been recognized by TIME as one of the 100 Most Influential Climate Leaders of 2025. This accolade doesn’t stem from a blockbuster performance but from a powerful, attention-grabbing role in a 60-second advertisement that took the internet by storm, solidifying his surprising new status as a major voice in the climate action movement.
The Ad That Shook the Internet
Partnering with Vattenfall, a Swedish power company, Jackson starred in a commercial that went viral for its bold and unapologetic message. Standing on a windswept coast, he championed the power of wind turbines, which he memorably described as “giants… standing tall against fossil fuels, rising up out of the ocean like a middle finger to CO2.”
The ad wasn’t just about generating power from wind. Jackson also highlighted innovative environmental solutions, snacking on seaweed harvested from experimental farms located between the turbines. “Deep beneath the waves, they can become artificial reefs, creating habitats for sea life to grow,” he explained, showcasing the multi-faceted benefits of the technology.
A Subtle Jab at Political Opposition
The commercial’s message was widely interpreted as a “tongue-in-cheek” response to prominent political figures known for their anti-wind-farm stance, including former President Donald Trump. Vattenfall has a history with Trump, having constructed a turbine project within view of his golf course in Scotland. This context added another layer to the ad’s impact, turning it into a cultural and political statement.
Unprecedented Global Reach
The ad’s success was nothing short of phenomenal. Within just four days of its release, it had reached an audience of 600 million viewers across 33 countries. This massive reach demonstrated the immense power of celebrity influence when harnessed for environmental advocacy. Jackson’s involvement transformed a corporate message into a global conversation, proving that his most influential role yet may be off-screen as a powerful catalyst for climate action.
Image Referance: https://time.com/collections/time-100-climate-2025/7326616/samuel-l-jackson/