“Iron Man” actor Terrence Howard predicts Bitcoin’s demise, faces blowback

Oscar-nominated actor Terrence Howard predicted that Bitcoin will “die” and indicated he is steering clear of cryptocurrencies. His remarks drew fast pushback from Bitcoin advocates and industry participants.

He argued that Bitcoin is based on fiat currency and pointed to the declining value of the U.S. dollar. He cited price volatility and the drop from Bitcoin's record high. He further asserted that the asset could be wiped out “with the push of a button.”

Bob Burnett, chief executive of Barefoot Mining, challenged that notion, asking Howard to identify the supposed “button” that could eliminate Bitcoin. Social media users echoed the skepticism, claiming the actor misunderstands how the network operates. “Love listening to people talk about Bitcoin… especially when they don't understand it. We are so early,” one supporter wrote. Another post read, “Terrence Howard seems to know as much about bitcoin as he does about string theory.”

Some users resurfaced a 2024 podcast clip in which Howard contended that 1*1 equals 2, using it to question his views on technical subjects.

Howard earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his role in Hustle & Flow and has appeared in Crash and Ray. His profile in film and television has made his public views on technology and finance a recurring topic online.

Hollywood figures have taken varied positions on digital assets. Actor Ben McKenzie, known for The O.C., has been an outspoken critic and has warned against the “Hollywoodization of crypto,” urging fellow actors to oppose industry promotion.