Clooney Talks Film and Politics at Venice, Urges Biden to Reconsider 2024 Run

During a lively press conference at the Venice Film Festival, George Clooney not only discussed his highly anticipated film "Wolfs," but he also delved into the realm of American politics, reflecting on the recent shifts within the Democratic Party. The actor was met with pressing inquiries, particularly regarding a provocative essay he penned for The New York Times in July. The op-ed, which called for President Biden to step aside as the Democratic nominee for the upcoming election, had stirred considerable conversation within political circles and among Hollywood elites. As the crowd settled in, a playful jab from a reporter aimed to lighten the mood, asking Clooney about his famously good looks. Clooney, ever the charmer, responded with a grin, "That I look so good up close?" However, the tone shifted as he was confronted with the significant ramifications of his earlier statements regarding Biden's presidency. Clooney's essay was seen by many as a reflection of a growing discontent among big donors in Hollywood, particularly following Biden's performance in his June debate against Donald Trump. The actor acknowledged the applause from some journalists but redirected the focus back to the President, praising Biden's endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris as the party's nominee. "The person who should be applauded is the president, who did the most selfless thing that anybody's done since George Washington," Clooney remarked, underscoring the importance of Biden's actions in the context of political history. In an optimistic tone, Clooney expressed pride in the current state of American politics, suggesting that the future holds promise. "I'm very proud of where we are in the state of the world right now, which I think many people are surprised by," he stated, hinting at a sense of hopefulness among the electorate as they look ahead to the upcoming election cycle. The press conference also highlighted the film "Wolfs," where Clooney teams up with fellow superstar Brad Pitt in a narrative centered on rival fixers who navigate a crime cover-up. While the film has garnered attention for its engaging storyline, there were questions about its release strategy. Originally intended for a theatrical debut, the film's distribution plans shifted to a more limited rollout on Apple TV+ following the platform's recent struggles with box office performances from other releases. As Clooney adeptly balanced questions about both his film and the political landscape, it became clear that his influence extends beyond the silver screen. With "Wolfs" poised to entertain audiences while Clooney's political commentary resonates with many, the actor continues to be a significant figure in both Hollywood and the broader societal conversation. His remarks at the Venice press conference not only reflect his views but also encapsulate the ongoing dialogue about leadership and representation in American politics as the nation prepares for a pivotal election year.