Donald Trump has expressed his disapproval of George Clooney following the actor’s recent appearance on CBS’ 60 Minutes, where he addressed issues related to press freedom and the influence of the Trump administration on journalism.
Clooney’s Warnings Regarding Press Freedom
In the interview, Clooney cautioned, “We’re witnessing the use of government to intimidate or penalize journalists, or to leverage corporations to diminish their influence.” He further stated, “Governments have always been uncomfortable with a free press.” Clooney pointed to Trump’s previous legal actions against media organizations, including a $15 million defamation settlement with ABC News and a $20 billion lawsuit against CBS, alleging election interference. CBS characterized these allegations as an effort to undermine press freedom.
Trump’s Reaction
In response, Trump took to Truth Social, labeling Clooney a “second-rate movie ‘star’ and unsuccessful political commentator.” He ridiculed Clooney’s inconsistent support for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, remarking, “60 Minutes even deceitfully inserted false responses into her disastrous interview.”
Clooney’s Broadway Production and Historical Comparisons
Clooney’s Broadway rendition of Good Night, and Good Luck showcases journalist Edward R. Murrow’s struggle against Senator Joseph McCarthy’s tactics of fear. Drawing parallels to the present, Clooney remarked, “Facts are now subject to negotiation.”
