Hollywood celebrities are speaking out against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as tensions rise over the agency’s enforcement of immigration laws. Many stars have taken to social media, late-night shows, and interviews to criticize ICE, which has been focused on apprehending illegal immigrants with serious criminal charges, especially during the Biden administration.
President Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, is leading the charge against illegal immigration, and his efforts have sparked backlash from many in the entertainment industry. Comedian Patton Oswalt, for instance, referred to ICE agents as “Pillsbury Stormtroopers” during a recent appearance on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" He humorously compared their physical appearance to his own, but his comments took a darker turn when he expressed hope for more severe consequences for Homan amid reports of threats against him.
Stephen King, the famed author, went further by likening ICE to the Gestapo, albeit with a misspelling. He tweeted about ICE’s actions, suggesting they were increasingly resembling oppressive regimes. Meanwhile, the co-hosts of "The View" also voiced their discontent, claiming that protests against ICE were peaceful until agents arrived, blaming them for escalating tensions.
Pop star Lizzo made headlines with her controversial statement that “illegal” immigrants don’t exist because no one truly owns land. In a similar vein, rapper Bad Bunny used strong language on Instagram to condemn ICE agents, while Stephen Colbert’s show featured Congressman Maxwell Frost accusing ICE of “kidnapping” individuals during raids.
Ariana Grande raised eyebrows by questioning the difference between crimes that lead to deportation and those that can lead someone to the presidency, highlighting the perceived inconsistencies in the legal system. Shakira, in an interview, described the immigrant experience as one filled with fear, urging for humane treatment regardless of immigration status.
Mark Ruffalo, a well-known activist, spoke out at a protest in California, criticizing the government’s actions and calling for accountability. The reactions from these celebrities come amidst reports from the Department of Homeland Security indicating a significant rise in attacks on ICE agents, which have reportedly increased by 500% in recent weeks.
As the debate continues, it’s clear that the rhetoric surrounding ICE is becoming more intense, with many in Hollywood using their platforms to challenge the agency’s actions. The ongoing conflict raises questions about immigration policy and the treatment of individuals caught in the crossfire.