On ABC’s long-running left-leaning talk show The View, hosts criticized actor Billy Bob Thornton for his minimal comments on political issues, claiming his silence equated to complicity.
Thornton, who currently appears in the popular Paramount+ series Landman, recently discussed his views on politics during his appearance on Howie Mandel Will Do Anything. He referenced comedian Ricky Gervais, who famously suggested that celebrities should just accept their awards and step back.
“I really don’t know much about politics,” Thornton shared with Mandel. “I mean, I don’t. And honestly, I don’t want to impose my beliefs on anyone since I’m not an expert.”
During a segment featuring clips from Thornton’s interview, the hosts expressed dissatisfaction with his choice to avoid political discussions, preferring instead to focus on acting and entertainment.
Joy Behar didn’t hold back, calling Thornton “stupid” and suggesting, “Can you believe he’s bragging about his ignorance?”
Sunny Hostin chimed in, saying, “This country is facing a crisis. I believe democracy requires participation.”
She further explained, “If you have a platform, it means you have a responsibility to voice your opinions about the state of our nation. Silence, in my view, equals complicity. We need all voices to be heard.”
Meanwhile, Alyssa Farrah Griffin noted that similar criticism had been directed at George Clooney for being politically vocal, especially when he called for President Biden’s resignation.
“Many of us here critiqued George Clooney when he wrote that op-ed,” Griffin pointed out. “It’s about celebrities using their platforms to express what they believe, not just when it aligns with our own views.”
Behar contended that it was her right to criticize Thornton under the same principle of free speech that allowed for public debate.
Griffin countered, indicating that some actors engage in “lazyism,” merely voicing opinions without fully understanding the context. “I don’t think we should pressure people into speaking up,” she added.
Sarah Haynes further expressed that many celebrities often preach to audiences who already agree with them and aren’t taking real steps to support their causes.
