In a new situation that reflects the escalating tension between Hollywood and American politics, global star George Clooney came out to defend satirical host Jimmy Kimmel, following calls from US President Donald Trump calling for his dismissal from ABC.
Clooney used the 51st Chaplin Awards at the Lincoln Film Center to respond forcefully to Trump's demands for the firing of satirist host Jimmy Kimmel, as he turned his speech during his tribute into a political statement defending the right of comedy to criticize power.
Clooney said Jimmy Kimmel was exercising his natural role as a comedian, stressing that attempts to muzzle media and satirists reflect a "worrying" political environment.
He pointed out that the statements of the White House spokeswoman, Carolyn Levitt, and the subsequent escalation against Kimmel, reveal the narrowness of the power of accountability, stressing that democracy is based on difference, not treason.
Warning of "treacherous language"
The Oscar winner warned of the dangers of this year's public discourse, describing the use of words such as "traitors" against political opponents as a "dangerous slide" that could lead to disastrous results.
Clooney cited his father's journalistic experience, arguing that a free press is the last bulwark of accountability for power, citing previous presidents such as Bill Clinton and Barack Obama as examples of respecting the rules of the democratic game despite sometimes being uncomfortable with questions.
Clooney's remarks reopen the national debate about the limits of free speech and the role of art in times of extreme polarization.
The clash marks a new chapter in the tense relationship between the Trump administration and Hollywood's artistic elite, where jokes are no longer just television jokes, but have become fuel in major political battles.
Trump: Clooney is not a movie star
The US president has been a scathing critic of the international artist George , who is known for his support of the Democratic Party.
After France granted George and his wife Amal Alameddine French citizenship at the beginning of this year, Trump said on the "Truth Social" platform, calling it "good news" and attacking Clooney's support for former US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.
Trump said the actor "was not a movie star at all, but an ordinary man who was constantly complaining. Rather, he considered that Clooney was known and famous for his political positions more than his dramatic and cinematic works."