The Changing Voice of Celebrity Criticism in Politics

During Donald Trump’s initial term as president, opposing him was not only common but also often profitable. This dynamic made Trump appear more as a subject of jokes rather than a respected leader. His desire for massive fame and admiration clashed with these perceptions.

Currently, prominent public figures who once boldly criticized Trump are encountering unexpected repercussions. I have communicated with journalist Don Lemon following his arrest and witnessed the end of “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert,” previously a platform for top comedians. Even “60 Minutes,” a key player in televised journalism, has faced collapse amidst allegations of political interference.

This scenario reflects a more constrained America.

Despite Trump’s recent setbacks, his control over the nation remains evident. Celebrities, who were previously vocal against him, have notably retreated into silence.

For example, last year Selena Gomez, with undocumented immigrant roots, bravely shared concerns about immigration policies through a teary Instagram post. The backlash from critics like Piers Morgan and anonymous right-wing accounts led her to remove her message. Additionally, major awards shows have seen a decrease in politically charged speeches, and “Saturday Night Live” appears to have softened its stance on Trump.

Jennifer Lawrence, once vocal about political matters, shared her current sentiment with The Times. She argued that celebrity opinions do not influence voter decisions and questioned the value of further deepening already existing divisions. This perspective seems to resonate with many of her colleagues today. Ironically, Tucker Carlson, a far-right commentator, seems more daring in his critique of Trump than many in the “Resistance” camp.