Reports suggest that George Clooney, the acclaimed actor, is reportedly upset with former President Barack Obama, alleging manipulation ahead of the 2024 presidential election. This news indicates a notable rift in a relationship that has lasted for roughly two decades.
Insiders claim Clooney is annoyed with Obama for purportedly urging him to pen a high-profile op-ed questioning President Joe Biden’s suitability for the presidency. Clooney’s article, which appeared in The New York Times in July 2024, commended Biden’s years of public service but advocated for a more youthful and energetic Democratic candidate for the upcoming election. The piece, meant to spark constructive discussions, ended up drawing criticism from Democratic leaders and progressive activists who interpreted it as a threat to party unity during an important electoral season.
An insider reported to a media outlet, “George is furious with Obama for disappearing after the election disaster and leaving him responsible for promoting the plan among his Hollywood friends.”
The rapport between Clooney and Obama started in 2006 at a gathering addressing the Darfur crisis. Over the years, Clooney has been a significant backer of Obama’s presidential bids, hosting fundraisers and spending vacations together. However, recent political actions have reportedly left Clooney feeling deceived by Obama, who he believes retreated amidst the backlash resulting from the op-ed.
This incident has triggered wider discussions about the internal dynamics of the Democratic Party, especially the difficulties of moving on from a president like Biden, whose age and health have been contentious points. Although Clooney’s op-ed brought up crucial questions about the future of Democratic leadership, critics argue that it exacerbated divisions within an already split party.
Further adding to the controversy, former President Donald Trump quickly ridiculed Clooney on his social media platform, Truth Social, labeling him a “fake movie actor” and accusing him of trying to “stay relevant” after the op-ed was published. Clooney, known for his quick wit, retaliated during an appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” declaring he would entirely exit politics if Trump agreed to do likewise.
This series of events has reportedly led Clooney to rethink his participation in political activism. Despite his long-time vocal support for Democratic causes, sources indicate this experience has dampened his enthusiasm for direct involvement in politically charged campaigns.
Some Democratic strategists interpret this fallout as emblematic of the party’s broader challenges to maintain unity and effectively handle high-profile supporters. Obama has yet to respond, leaving questions about his alleged involvement in the op-ed controversy unanswered. Meanwhile, party insiders face difficulties steering through a crucial phase in their leadership transition post the 2024 election.
Clooney, who has long leveraged his platform to champion social justice and humanitarian causes, now confronts the decision of how—or if—to continue participating in political discourse. As the Democratic Party focuses on rebuilding and unifying for the future, the implications of this fallout may persist well beyond the 2024 election.