As the results of the 2024 election arrived, an outpouring of emotional reactions from Hollywood's elite surged through social media. High-profile celebrities reacted strongly to Vice President Kamala Harris's unexpected defeat, marking the return of President Donald Trump to the White House. Many known personalities voiced their outrage and despair, with some even contemplating leaving the U.S. or withdrawing from social media altogether. The election outcome has sparked alarm among those in the entertainment industry regarding issues they feel may be jeopardized.
Actress Christina Applegate utilized social media platform X to express her anguish over the election results. She underscored her fears that Trump's victory could lead to significant restrictions on reproductive rights, questioning, “Why? Give me your reasons why?????” Applegate, a mother, shared her daughter's tears, stating, “My child is sobbing because her rights as a woman may be taken away. Why?” Her emotional plea urged followers who disagreed with her stance on women and disability rights to unfollow her, reflecting the distress many public figures experience amid Harris's loss and Trump's return.
Soap opera star Nancy Lee Grahn echoed similar sentiments of dismay, revealing that she felt she had exhausted her options for effecting change, declaring, “I have done all I can do.” Grahn announced her intention to delete her social media accounts for the sake of her daughter, expressing regret and reflecting the vulnerability felt by many in Hollywood during this political shift.
Veteran actress Bette Midler appeared to follow through on her prior statement about leaving social media if Trump won, as she seemingly vanished from X shortly after the results were announced. Her absence removed a familiar voice of wit and criticism from her followers, signifying a notable end to her online engagement.
Renowned author Stephen King contributed his reflections on the fragility of democracy, stating, “There’s a sign you can see in many shops that sell beautiful but fragile items: LOVELY TO LOOK AT, DELIGHTFUL TO HOLD, BUT ONCE YOU BREAK IT, THEN IT’S SOLD.” His analogy evoked an urgent concern about the stability of democracy, forming a narrative that positions Trump’s leadership as a looming threat to democratic values and liberties.
Meanwhile, actress Sharon Stone disclosed her contemplation of purchasing property abroad, remarking, “I am certainly considering a house in Italy. I think that’s an intelligent construct at this time.” Stone articulated her anxiety surrounding Trump’s presidency and lamented witnessing a political campaign based on “hate and oppression.”
The reactions from Hollywood to Trump’s election demonstrate the stark ideological divides between the general populace and the values many in the entertainment industry champion. For celebrities, Trump's policies often stand in direct opposition to issues such as women’s rights, social justice, and inclusivity. This emotional upheaval, alongside the drastic measures discussed by public figures, highlights a moment of profound turbulence within the Hollywood community. As the controversy unfolds, the ongoing discourse surrounding activism in the entertainment industry and its influence on public opinion is sure to remain a focal point in American political and social discussions.
