The former Hollywood action star who once dominated box offices has resurfaced in an unlikely role: cultural ambassador for the Kremlin.
Steven Seagal, the 73-year-old actor known for his martial arts prowess in 1990s blockbusters, recently appeared before a packed auditorium to deliver an impassioned declaration of allegiance to his adopted homeland.
Standing on stage as Russian officials introduced him to the crowd, Seagal delivered his remarks entirely in English, stating: “I am proud to be Russian, proud to be here today. And if God gives me the opportunity to be here longer and longer, I will be very very grateful to serve God and my country, and all of you people, and my people together in this theme of oneness. Thank you.”
The video, which circulated on social media platform X this week, sparked immediate reactions online.
The actor’s transformation from Hollywood heavyweight to Kremlin supporter represents one of the more peculiar celebrity reinventions in recent memory. Seagal obtained Russian citizenship in 2016, cultivating a relationship with President Vladimir Putin through their mutual interest in martial arts. The actor has publicly described Putin as a “brother” and “one of the greatest living world leaders.”
His loyalty has not gone unrewarded. In 2023, Putin presented Seagal with the Order of Friendship, ostensibly recognizing his contributions to improving Russian-American relations. Last year, Seagal doubled down on his support by directing and starring in a 30-minute documentary titled “In The Name of Justice,” which appeared to justify Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine by blaming Ukrainian nationalists.
The production included interviews with captured members of Ukraine’s Azov Brigade and footage from Russian-controlled Ukrainian territories.
Social media users expressed skepticism about Seagal’s latest appearance. One observer quipped: “Of course he’s proud to be Russian – it’s the only country still pretending his movies are good.” Another joked: “Steven Seagal threatens to make new movies if US keeps arming Ukraine.”
The documentary also drew attention for reasons beyond its political messaging. The once-muscular star of films like “Under Siege,” “Out for Justice,” and “Hard to Kill” appeared noticeably heavier than during his action hero heyday.
A former colleague told the Daily Mail that Seagal had gained “at least 50 pounds,” noting that the actor typically exercised strict control over camera angles during productions to minimize attention to his weight gain.
Seagal’s political statements have grown increasingly controversial. During his Order of Friendship ceremony, he reportedly characterized Ukraine as being known for “organ trafficking, child s*x trafficking and N**ism,” according to media reports.
