Story perspectives

Clooney Defends Kimmel, Warns Against Trump’s Traitor Rhetoric

4/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

George Clooney defended Jimmy Kimmel at gala after President Donald Trump called the joke a “despicable call to violence.”
George Clooney warned that labeling opponents traitors is dangerous rhetoric.
George Clooney cited his journalist-parent upbringing, his “Good Night, and Good Luck” stage adaptation, and Thomas Jefferson’s 1787 principle that the press must hold power accountable.
George Clooney declared himself a Democrat and stressed that a free press must question government.

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Story summary

George Clooney defended Jimmy Kimmel at gala after President Donald Trump called the joke a “despicable call to violence.”
George Clooney warned that labeling opponents traitors is dangerous rhetoric.
George Clooney cited his journalist-parent upbringing, his “Good Night, and Good Luck” stage adaptation, and Thomas Jefferson’s 1787 principle that the press must hold power accountable.
George Clooney declared himself a Democrat and stressed that a free press must question government.