Actor George Clooney raised concerns about the impact of the current political environment on journalism in a recent CNN interview, noting that “it’s a scary time to be a news person” under President Donald Trump’s administration. The interview took place on June 4, on the set of his Broadway play “Good Night, and Good Luck.”
During the discussion with Anderson Cooper, Clooney stated that many news organizations are facing criticism from the Trump administration. He highlighted that Cooper and CBS’s “60 Minutes” have been specifically targeted. Clooney suggested that this behavior is typical of demagogues who often attack news outlets first.
Clooney argued that such attacks on news organizations pose a fundamental threat to democratic institutions, as the media serves as a key source of information for citizens. He described the current situation as both challenging and concerning for those in the journalism field.
The Independent reported that Clooney acknowledged widespread concerns about being targeted by the Trump administration. However, he emphasized that fear should not prevent individuals from upholding their beliefs. He highlighted the importance of upholding principles to set a good example for future generations.
Clooney drew historical parallels between the current political climate and the McCarthy era of the 1950s.
The interview took place on the set of the Broadway adaptation of “Good Night, and Good Luck,” where Clooney has been nominated for a Tony Award for his portrayal of CBS newsman Edward R. Murrow. The production focuses on Murrow’s confrontations with Senator Joseph McCarthy during the 1950s communist witch-hunt period. Clooney suggested that the current climate of fear is more widespread than during the McCarthy era, affecting areas beyond Washington, such as law firms and universities.
Clooney countered Cooper’s claim that America is experiencing its worst period. He argued that the nation has faced more difficult times, referencing 1968 when cities across the United States experienced unrest, the National Guard surrounded government buildings, and significant figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy were lost during the Vietnam War’s Tet Offensive.
Regarding the future of Trump’s political influence, Clooney predicted that “Trumpism” would not endure beyond the current president’s term. He attributed Trump’s success to his celebrity status and charisma, noting Trump’s star on Hollywood Boulevard.
Clooney contended that the Republican Party lacks a figure who can deliver Trump’s message with similar charisma once his presidency ends. He predicted that when Trump’s political career concludes, the party will struggle to find a successor who can maintain the same level of popular appeal and celebrity-driven political success.
Despite concerns about potential government retribution, Clooney emphasized his commitment to maintaining his political stance. He expressed a desire to explain to his twins, Alexander and Ella, where he stood during significant historical moments. The actor shares the seven-year-old twins with his wife, international human rights lawyer, Amal Clooney.
Clooney’s comments reflect broader concerns within Hollywood about potential targeting by the Trump administration. Other figures in the entertainment industry have expressed similar worries about possible business repercussions and government investigations. Clooney acknowledged these concerns but maintained that allowing fear to dictate actions would prevent meaningful stands on important issues.
The Broadway production of “Good Night, and Good Luck” serves as a vehicle for examining historical parallels between past and present political climates. Through his portrayal of Murrow, Clooney draws connections between the journalist’s courage in confronting McCarthyism and the challenges facing modern media organizations. The play serves as a reminder that the country has survived challenging periods and historically finds ways to overcome political challenges.
