Donald Trump has criticized George Clooney following the actor’s recent interview on CBS’ 60 Minutes, where he discussed press freedom and the Trump administration’s impact on journalism.
Clooney’s Concerns About Press Freedom
During the interview, Clooney warned, “We’re seeing this idea of using government to scare or fine or use corporations to make journalists smaller.” He added, “Governments don’t like the freedom of the press… they never have.” Clooney referenced Trump’s past lawsuits against media outlets, including a $15 million defamation settlement with ABC News and a $20 billion lawsuit against CBS for alleged election interference. CBS dismissed the claims as an attempt to suppress press freedom.
Trump’s Response
Trump reacted on Truth Social, calling Clooney a “second-rate movie ‘star’ and failed political pundit.” He mocked Clooney’s shifting support for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, adding, “60 Minutes even fraudulently inserted Fake answers into her disastrous interview.”
Clooney’s Broadway Play and Historical Parallels
Clooney’s Broadway adaptation of Good Night, and Good Luck highlights journalist Edward R. Murrow’s battle against Senator Joseph McCarthy’s fearmongering. Comparing it to today, Clooney noted, “Facts are now negotiated.”