Ben Stiller Stands By ‘Tropic Thunder’ And Refuses To Apologize Despite Calls For Cancellation

Ben Stiller has no intention of apologizing for his role in the controversial film Tropic Thunder—and has even pushed back against claims that he already had.

The 2008 satirical action comedy faced backlash for multiple reasons, including its portrayal of disabled individuals and minority groups, with Robert Downey Jr.’s use of blackface sparking particular outrage.

For nearly two decades, fans have taken to social media to defend the film, arguing that it has stood the test of time despite ongoing criticism.

Watch the trailer for Tropic Thunder:

The 59-year-old actor—who also directed the film—has addressed the backlash, making it clear that he remains “proud” of the comedy.

Last year, he responded to a post on X (formerly Twitter) where a user named Benny S wrote: “Please stop apologizing for doing this movie. It was and still is funny AF. Even funnier now with cancel culture the way it is. It’s a MOVIE. Y’all can just get over it. I was DYING laughing when I first saw it back in the day and so was everyone else.”

The user also shared a screenshot of an earlier tweet claiming that the Night at the Museum star had been pressured into apologizing for Tropic Thunder and that “liberals are trying to cancel” the film.

Ben Stiller starred in the controversial movie. Credit: Elisabetta Villa/Getty Images

“When the Wayans Brothers made White Chicks… nobody said a dang thing!!! STOP APOLOGIZING FOR THIS STUFF!!!!” read one of the quotes in the image.