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Hollywood reacts to President Joe Biden dropping out of the 2024 presidential race. In an unprecedented move, the 81-year-old announced his exit in a statement posted on X on Sunday, July 21, 2024, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee in his place. He wrote:
"It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President. And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term."
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The move came after Biden's allies raised doubts over his fitness for office, especially after his terrible debate performance against Donald Trump last month. Notably, actor George Clooney, who recently hosted a fundraiser for Biden's re-election campaign, penned an essay for the New York Times (July 10), asking the latter to step down.
Hollywood celebrities support Joe Biden's decision to exit the 2024 election race
Many in the entertainment industry supported Biden's move, taking to their social media to call for voters to stand with the Democratic Party. Others praised him for his work as POTUS. Some wrote in favor of Kamala Harris' nomination.
Below are some notable reactions to the news by Hollywood A-listers:
Barbra Streisand
Hollywood actress, singer, and filmmaker commended Biden for upholding democracy, calling him a "man who accomplished significant achievements."
Cher
The "Goddess of Pop" also commented on the move, expressing that she felt "tortured," as despite being fond of Biden, she didn't believe Democarts could win under him. Suggesting a split ticket, she wrote:
"In my heart im tortured, Because I Don’t believe the Democrats Can win the Presidency With”Pres Biden” “Joe”whom I’ve Loved since we met in 2008. I Campaigned for him I believe ITS TIME 2 PASS THE BATON. TIME 4 DEMS 2 THINK “ WAY” OUTSIDE THE BOX. MAYBE EVEN A SPLIT TICKET."
Mark Hamill
The Hollywood superstar supported POTUS's decision to exit the bid for re-election, writing that he "restored honesty, dignity & integrity to the office" following Trump's run. The Star Wars actor expressed his gratitude, writing:
"@JoeBiden has a record of accomplishments unmatched by any president in our lifetime. He restored honesty, dignity & integrity to the office after 4 years of lies, crime, scandal & chaos. Thank you for your service, Mr. President. It's now our duty as patriotic Americans to elect the Democrat who will honor & further your legacy. #VoteBlue2024ProtectDemocracy."
Jon Favreau
During his appearance on the Weekly Show podcast earlier this month, the Iron Man director analyzed Biden's performance in the debate and discussed the 81-year-old's (then) refusal to consider stepping down. Following Sunday's announcement, the Hollywood actor-director shared a post on X praising Biden:
"A courageous and selfless decision. The President did what he’s done for the last four years - he listened to the American people and put the country’s interests ahead of his own. The exact opposite of Donald Trump."
Weekly Show host Jon Stewart joined Favreu in his criticism of President Joe Biden and shared a one-word tweet about the decision, writing "Legend."
Robert De Niro
Following Biden's announcement, Robert De Niro, one of the greatest actors in Hollywood, praised POTUS, calling the move an "act of shrewd politics and selfless patriotism." In a statement made to the Hill, De Niro thanked Biden for stepping down, stating that "there (was) nothing more important for our country than defeating Donald Trump at the ballot box."
Mark Ruffalo
The Hulk actor, who is vocal in his support for women's reproductive rights and freedom of religion, also posted his support for the Democratic Party.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus
Beloved Hollywood actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus took to her Instagram account to applaud the 81-year-old for his "extraordinary leadership" and "love of this country and all its people."
Spike Lee
Filmmaker Spike Lee vouched for Kamala Harris, taking to his Instagram to write, "ONCE AGAIN A SISTA COMES TO DA RESCUE."
Ken Burns
Documentary director Ken Burns of The Cilvil War fame lauded Biden, stating, "History recognizes actions that are bigger than self." He expressed his gratitude to the 81-year-old for his selfless service and legislative actions in both red and blue states.
Jamie Lee Curtis
Adored Hollywood actress Jamie Lee Curtis, too, took time to second POTUS' move and endorse Harris. She praised the latter in an Instagram post for her stance for women's rights and people of color, adding, "her message is one of HOPE and UNITY for America at her time of great national divide."
Other celebrities to comment on the news
In addition to the names listed above, Cardi B took to X to reinforce her support for Kamala Harris' nomonation. Grammy-winning singer John Legend thanked Biden, listing out his various contributions as president, including helping to fight climate change and his decisions regarding "burdensome college debt."
Director Shonda Rhimes (of Bridgerton fame) and comedian Ellen DeGeneres, too, commended the POTUS for everything he has done. Host Jimmy Kimmel thanked Joe and Dr. Jill Biden for their work.
Biden has not released any other statements.
