George Clooney has long been a household name in Hollywood, known for his remarkable acting career and his contributions to the film industry. However, beyond his work on the big screen, Clooney has also gained a reputation as an outspoken political activist. In a recent interview, he shared his thoughts on the state of Hollywood, the upcoming U.S. presidential election, and the broader political landscape.

His Endorsement of Hillary Clinton and Respect for Bernie Sanders

Clooney has been a strong supporter of Hillary Clinton, believing that she is the best candidate for the presidency. He has publicly endorsed her, emphasizing her experience and qualifications for the role. However, he does not disregard the impact of Bernie Sanders. Clooney respects Sanders’ focus on addressing income inequality and closing the wealth gap in the United States. He acknowledges that Sanders has brought crucial economic issues to the forefront of national discourse.

That being said, Clooney also points out a potential flaw in Sanders’ approach—his rigid stance on certain issues, which could hinder his ability to navigate the complex nature of national politics. According to Clooney, while Sanders’ passion is commendable, his unwillingness to compromise could ultimately limit his influence on a broader scale.

His Blunt Take on Donald Trump

Never one to shy away from controversy, Clooney has been vocal about his disapproval of Donald Trump. He does not mince words when describing Trump, calling him a “xenophobic fascist” and labeling him as an opportunist. Clooney believes that while Trump’s rhetoric may appeal to certain voters in the short term, history has shown that the American people ultimately make the right choices and act in a way that reflects the nation’s core values.

Despite the divisiveness of modern politics, Clooney remains optimistic about America’s ability to recognize and correct its course. He has faith in the resilience and moral compass of the American people, even if the process takes time.

A Strong Advocate for Immigration and Inclusivity

One of Clooney’s strongest beliefs is in the importance of maintaining an open and welcoming society, particularly when it comes to immigration. He firmly opposes the idea of placing restrictions on Muslim immigrants, arguing that such policies contradict the fundamental values of the United States. Clooney reminds people of the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of hope and refuge, emphasizing that America has always been a nation built by immigrants.

Clooney’s advocacy for inclusivity extends beyond politics. He has been actively involved in humanitarian efforts, particularly in support of refugees and displaced individuals. He believes that the U.S. has a responsibility to set an example of compassion and acceptance, rather than closing its doors to those in need.

Reflecting on Hollywood and His Own Career

In addition to his political views, Clooney shared insights into his film career, particularly his role in the Coen brothers’ film Hail, Caesar!. He plays Baird Whitlock, a character reminiscent of the golden age of Hollywood. Clooney noted that the Coen brothers have often cast him in roles where he plays somewhat foolish or clueless characters, but he doesn’t see these roles as depicting truly unintelligent people. Instead, he views them as reflections of a different kind of character—one that may lack awareness but is not entirely without depth.

He also took a moment to reflect on the key moments that shaped his career. Films like O Brother, Where Art Thou? and The Perfect Storm were pivotal in transforming him from a television actor to a major Hollywood star. However, not every project was a success. Clooney openly acknowledges the backlash he faced for his role as Batman in Batman & Robin, a film widely criticized by fans and critics alike. Rather than shying away from past missteps, he embraces them as learning experiences that helped him grow as an actor and filmmaker.

The Need for Greater Diversity in Hollywood

Clooney also addressed one of Hollywood’s ongoing challenges: the lack of diversity. He pointed out that the film industry still has a long way to go in terms of inclusive casting and representation. He expressed his desire to see more opportunities for actors of different backgrounds and emphasized that change is necessary to ensure Hollywood reflects the diversity of the real world.

As someone who has witnessed the evolution of the film industry firsthand, Clooney believes that audiences are ready for more diverse storytelling. He hopes that the industry will move toward greater inclusivity, both in front of and behind the camera.

The Role of the Media in Shaping Public Awareness

As the conversation neared its end, Clooney highlighted the importance of responsible journalism. He stressed that the media plays a crucial role in bringing awareness to global issues, such as the Syrian refugee crisis. According to Clooney, increased media coverage of such crises could inspire more people to take action and contribute to positive change.

Although he has spent much of his life in Hollywood, Clooney maintains a balanced perspective on the entertainment industry. He recognizes both its power to influence culture and its potential for exploitation. His film Good Night, and Good Luck showcased his admiration for journalism, but it also served as a critique of how media can be manipulated. He remains committed to advocating for truthful, impactful reporting.

Final Thoughts: Clooney’s Passion for Change

Through this interview, George Clooney provides a deeper look into his political views, his experiences in Hollywood, and his aspirations for a more inclusive and socially conscious world. His charisma and sharp intellect continue to captivate audiences, whether he is on-screen or speaking out about important issues. While his career has made him an icon in the entertainment industry, his dedication to activism proves that he is just as invested in shaping the future as he is in making great films.