Sean Penn Chooses War Zone Over Oscars

Actor Sean Penn opted to visit a conflict area instead of attending the Oscars ceremony on Sunday evening.

Kieran Culkin, another actor, playfully remarked about Penn’s absence, suggesting that he likely “didn’t want to be at the Oscars.” He added, “This year we’ll be in the right place.”

Penn won the Best Supporting Actor award for his role in Battles continue one after another, marking his third Oscar win overall. After announcing the award, Culkin stated, “Sean Penn was unable or unwilling to be here tonight, so I will accept the award on his behalf.”

In Ukraine with Zelensky

Penn appeared to enjoy his time in Ukraine alongside President Volodymyr Zelensky, who shared photos from their meeting. The president expressed gratitude, saying, “Thanks to you, Sean, we now know what a true friend of Ukraine is. You were with Ukraine from the first day of total war, and this still holds true today.” He emphasized that Penn’s support for Ukraine and its people will continue.

Contrast with Ben Stiller

Penn’s choice to be in Ukraine starkly contrasts with Ben Stiller’s absence from the Oscars, which he skipped for seemingly more relatable reasons. On Oscar afternoon, Stiller commented about the Knicks winning, implying he preferred being there instead. “We’re in the right place this year,” he was quoted as saying while he was seen courtside at Madison Square Garden.

Absence from the Oscar Stage

Both Stiller and Penn, known for their liberal viewpoints, missing the Oscar stage is especially noteworthy as it’s a prominent platform for left-leaning messages.

Recently, Stiller urged the Trump administration to remove a clip from his movie, Tropic Thunder, that appeared in a divisive promotional video, asserting, “We have never given you permission and we have no interest in being part of your propaganda machine. War is not a movie.” He has continued to critique the administration publicly but hasn’t mentioned the president’s name on social media since 2021.