George Clooney Discusses “Good Night, and Good Luck,” U.S. Politics, and the State of Journalism in CNN Interview
In an interview with CNN’s Anderson Cooper, actor and director George Clooney shared insights about his Broadway show “Good Night, and Good Luck,” as well as the current political and social climate in the United States.
The play is based on a true story—the confrontation between legendary journalist Edward R. Murrow and Senator Joseph McCarthy during the era of McCarthyism and the anti-communist “witch hunts.” Clooney noted that this historical backdrop is resonating strongly with audiences today.
“People are seeking a space where they can come together, listen, and reflect on our best qualities,” Clooney explained. “That’s a good thing. I believe we’re providing some relief because many of us feel like we’re living through our worst moments as a society right now.”
Despite acknowledging the challenging times, Clooney emphasized that America has faced darker periods in history.
“Yes, this is a disappointing and frightening moment for many. But I can assure you, we’ve been through much worse,” he said. “In 1968, nearly every city in America was aflame. The National Guard surrounded the White House and Capitol. We had lost Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy. This isn’t the first crisis we’ve endured.”
Clooney also spoke about the challenges facing journalism today, describing the profession as more difficult and dangerous than ever.
“It’s scary to be a journalist now. The profession is under attack,” he stated. “Most media outlets are under constant pressure and facing attacks, often when demagogic figures rise to power. The first targets are journalists because they provide information.”
When asked whether he believes Trumpism will persist beyond Donald Trump’s potential second term, Clooney responded decisively: “No, I don’t. It’s going to be very difficult. Remember, Donald Trump is a celebrity—he even has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. I don’t have one, and I’m not asking for one—I’m just highlighting the difference.”
Cooper made a joke about this, prompting Clooney to add: “He’s a TV star and the President of the United States. He was elected legally and fairly. That’s how democracy works. But he’s also charismatic, and for those who support him, he’s entertaining. For others, he’s not.”
Clooney concluded that the future of Trumpism depends on whether another figure with similar influence can rise: “When this all ends—and it will—the movement will need another charismatic leader to carry the message. And right now, they don’t have that person.”
