Eight years ago, President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration was met with widespread protests from celebrities, unlike his predecessor Barack Obama’s second inaugural ceremony which featured high-profile performances by Beyoncé and other stars. However, this time around, the entertainment industry is showing a different side of its support for Trump.
Kid Rock, Billy Ray Cyrus, The Village People, Lee Greenwood, and Nelly performed at rallies and events celebrating Trump’s victory. Even some celebrities who have publicly criticized Trump in the past, like Snoop Dogg, changed their stance and attended events. However, not all celebrities are embracing Trump’s inauguration, with some expressing disdain for his policies.
According to Robert Thompson, a professor of pop culture at Syracuse University, “The people who are coming out and participating directly are still a small subset of the entire universe of what we call celebrity.” While there is still a stigma attached to supporting Trump, Thompson notes that the event could help change minds about certain artists. However, it’s unlikely to sway opinions on Trump himself.
Trump has made efforts to court the entertainment industry, naming Sylvester Stallone, Jon Voight, and Mel Gibson as his chosen “ambassadors” for a mission to save Hollywood. The president-elect has also expressed a desire to use the arts to bring people together, despite past criticisms of his views on artistic freedom.
In contrast to last year’s protests, this year’s events have been largely non-partisan, with many celebrities focusing on their work and avoiding commentary on the incoming administration. However, some are using their platforms to raise awareness about important issues like wildfire relief and human rights.
Overall, the entertainment industry is taking a more nuanced approach to supporting Trump at his inauguration, highlighting both the shift in tides and the ongoing divisions within the community.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/trump-inauguration-celebrities-carrie-underwood-snoop-dogg-3668ca6c3b250af72a24c7b47622fece