Despite what he called a "flattering" online petition, Sheen told reporters he will not run for president of Ireland. Rumors had been swirling on Twitter and elsewhere online that Sheen could make a run. Sheen is a citizen of Ireland.
Sheen made the comments at an event honoring him and his son, Emilio Estevez. Illinois Governor Pat Quinn was on hand at the AMC River East 21 theatre in downtown Chicago Friday to announce "Sheen Day" in the state.
While Sheen was the one being honored, it sounded like he is a big fan of Governor Quinn.
"You've got this guy in the middle of it all in Illinois who's a progressive, who's deeply humane, extremely bright and so practical and he's just one of my heroes and I adore him," said Sheen.
The 47th Chicago International Film Festival Friday night honored Sheen with their Career Achievement Award, also known as the Silver Hugo, which was to be presented to him by Estevez.
Sheen gained early fame in films such as "Apocalypse Now" and "The Missiles of October", but recently is best known for his television role as fictional U.S. president Josiah "Jed" Bartlet in "The West Wing".
Estevez and Sheen are promoting their new movie, "The Way". In the film, Sheen portrays an American doctor who goes to France to claim the body of his son, who died traveling from France to Spain on a historical pilgrimage. Estevez also stars in the movie, which he wrote, produced and directed.
"The Way" opens October 7th in the United States.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
