Hollywood has begun to break its silence regarding the federal response to recent tragedies, notably in connection with the fatal shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti. This weekend, prominent figures like Pedro Pascal and Billie Eilish spoke out passionately against the violent actions of federal agents following the deaths of Pretti and Renee Good, who was shot in Minneapolis by law enforcement.
Pascal highlighted the injustices surrounding Pretti’s death through multiple Instagram posts, expressing that the American public deserves transparency about the incidents. He featured images of both victims alongside the phrase “Pretti Good reason for a national strike,” and referenced a New York Times editorial that called for accountability. Eilish also took to social media, labeling Pretti a “real American hero” and criticizing the silence of fellow celebrities, urging them to voice their opinions.
In a notable display of solidarity, actress Jamie Lee Curtis re-shared Pascal’s images. Edward Norton emphasized the need for a general strike at the Sundance Film Festival, asserting the importance of truth in distinguishing democracy from authoritarianism. Meanwhile, Katy Perry encouraged her followers to communicate with their senators about the situation.
Both Natalie Portman and Olivia Wilde made headlines for wearing “ICE Out” pins at Sundance, highlighting the discontent with federal actions while promoting their films. Portman expressed her pride in the American public’s response to injustice, contrasting it with her disappointment in the government’s conduct, while Wilde described her horror at the recent killings.
Actors Mark Ruffalo and Glenn Close also criticized the federal agents’ violence, with Ruffalo calling Pretti a hero and sharing a video of the shooting, condemning it as “cold-blooded murder.” Close, speaking from abroad, voiced her outrage at the ongoing erosion of democracy under the Trump administration, calling attention to systemic corruption and inhumane practices.
There is a growing movement within the entertainment industry to demand accountability and rally support for justice. This wave of celebrity activism reflects a significant shift towards solidarity and a collective call for change in the face of tragedy, suggesting that a renewed commitment to social justice might be on the horizon.
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