Bruce Springsteen sparked controversy during his May 14 concert in Manchester by calling Donald Trump’s administration “corrupt, incompetent, and treasonous.” The singer urged fans to “raise your voices against authoritarianism,” which drew backlash online. Some fans slammed him for criticizing the U.S. abroad, while others praised him: “Amazing words – thank you, Bruce!”

Springsteen, a longtime Trump critic, backed Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in the 2024 election. Though disappointed in the outcome, he continues to speak out, saying Trump is “the most dangerous candidate” due to his disregard for democracy and the Constitution.

Wow #BruceSpringsteen Bruce Springsteen just battered Trump unbelievable moment at start of Manchester tour pic.twitter.com/JYfL4G5KQE

— DORTIE (@TonyDortie) May 14, 2025

Just a day earlier, actor Robert De Niro used his Cannes Film Festival stage time to voice similar concerns. Accepting an honorary Palme d’Or, De Niro said, “We are fighting like [expletive] for the democracy we once took for granted.” He blasted Trump for slashing arts funding and imposing new tariffs on foreign films.

De Niro ended with a global call to action: “It’s time to organize, protest, and vote.” While reactions were mixed, both stars remain firm in their political stance.