Trump rips CBS ’60 Minutes’ ‘puff piece’ with ‘second rate’ George Clooney
President Donald Trump recently dismissed George Clooney’s interview with CBS’ “60 Minutes” as a “puff piece,” criticizing the actor-director for his comments about the commander-in-chief during the discussion of his Broadway debut. Trump took to TRUTH Social to express his disapproval, questioning why “60 Minutes” would feature Clooney, whom he described as a “second-rate movie star” and a “failed political pundit.”
In his statement, Trump accused Clooney of supporting Joe Biden’s election campaign only to abandon him shortly after the debate. He also alleged that Clooney, under pressure from the Obama camp, shifted his support to Kamala Harris, only to realize that it was not a successful strategy. Trump further criticized “60 Minutes” for inserting fake answers into Harris’ interview, labeling it as one of the most embarrassing and dishonest events in broadcast history.
Clooney, a lifelong Democrat, appeared on “60 Minutes” to discuss his role as American journalist Edward R. Murrow in a Broadway adaptation of his film “Good Night, and Good Luck.” Drawing parallels between Murrow’s challenge to the McCarthy administration and the current media landscape under Trump’s presidency, Clooney emphasized the importance of discerning the truth in a world where facts are negotiable.
Defending his decision to pen an opinion piece calling for Biden’s withdrawal from the re-election campaign, Clooney explained that he was motivated by a commitment to truth and honesty. Despite his initial support for Biden and fundraising efforts on his behalf, Clooney felt compelled to speak out against what he perceived as cowardice within the Democratic Party.
Trump’s criticism of “60 Minutes” comes amid a $20 billion lawsuit against the program and CBS’ parent company, Paramount Global, for alleged partisan and unlawful interference in the 2024 presidential election. The lawsuit, filed in October 2024 and expanded recently, accuses the network of editing an interview with Kamala Harris in a misleading manner. Despite the network’s defense of the editing process, corporate leaders are reportedly considering a settlement.
Clooney’s interview also touched on the broader challenges facing journalism and the freedom of the press in the current political climate. He warned against government attempts to intimidate or silence journalists, emphasizing the importance of holding those in power accountable through investigative reporting and truth-telling.
As the debate over media ethics and political interference continues to unfold, both Trump and Clooney’s comments reflect the ongoing tensions between the press and political figures. The clash between truth-seeking journalism and political power dynamics remains a critical issue in today’s society, with implications for the future of democracy and freedom of speech.
