Donald Trump has been a magnet for controversy, especially when it comes to Hollywood celebrities. From his time as a business mogul to his presidency, Trump’s public spats with celebrities have often made headlines and polarized public opinion. Here’s a look at some of the most notable feuds between Trump and the biggest stars from Hollywood.
Meryl Streep vs. Donald Trump
One of the most talked-about clashes occurred between Donald Trump and actress Meryl Streep. At the 2017 Golden Globe Awards, Streep criticized Trump without mentioning him by name, condemning his mockery of a disabled reporter. Trump’s response on Twitter labeled Streep as “one of the most over-rated actresses” and a “Hillary flunky.” This feud highlighted the deep divisions in American politics, with Streep’s supporters rallying around her, while Trump’s base dismissed her criticism as elitist.
Rosie O’Donnell’s Long-Running Feud
The animosity between Trump and comedian Rosie O’Donnell dates back to 2006 when O’Donnell criticized Trump on “The View.” Trump fired back with personal attacks, calling O’Donnell a “real loser” and attacking her career. This feud continued through Trump’s presidential candidacy and beyond, symbolizing his combative style and willingness to engage in personal attacks against his critics.
Cher and Trump’s Back-and-Forth
Pop star Cher has been another prominent critic of Trump. In 2011, Cher tweeted that she would never stay at one of Trump’s hotels, prompting a mocking response from Trump. Their feud reignited during Trump’s presidential campaign, with Cher frequently criticizing his policies. Trump dismissed Cher as “sad” and “lonely,” but Cher continued to use her platform to speak out against him throughout his presidency.
Colin Kaepernick’s Protest and Trump’s Response
NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick became a central figure in a different kind of feud when he knelt during the national anthem to protest police brutality. Trump seized on Kaepernick’s protest to energize his base, referring to him and other protesting players as “sons of bitches” who should be fired. This conflict extended to the NFL as a whole, with Trump frequently criticizing the league for allowing the protests, reflecting his broader cultural battle against what he saw as unpatriotic behavior.
Jimmy Kimmel’s Late-Night Jabs
Comedian Jimmy Kimmel has used his late-night platform to frequently lampoon Trump, especially during major political moments like health care debates. Trump responded by attacking Kimmel’s ratings and mocking his show. Their ongoing feud became a staple of late-night television, with Kimmel often turning Trump’s comments into material for his monologues, highlighting the blurring lines between entertainment and politics during the Trump era.
These feuds between Donald Trump and Hollywood celebrities not only reflect personal grievances but also symbolize the larger cultural and political conflicts of the Trump era. Whether through Twitter tirades or award show speeches, these celebrities and Trump have engaged in a public struggle for influence, each advancing their own narratives in the ongoing cultural clash that defined much of Trump’s time in the spotlight.
