Celebrities React: Robert De Niro, Lizzo on Biden Dropping Out of Race

Stars like Robert De Niro, Lizzo, and Barbra Streisand are reacting to the announcement that U.S. President Joe Biden is stepping aside from the presidential race, choosing not to seek another term after weeks of pressure to do so.

Within hours of the announcement on Sunday (21 June), two-time Oscar winner De Niro expressed his support for the leading Democratic nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris, to take on Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election.

In a statement issued via his spokesperson Stan Rosenfeld, De Niro said: “In an act of shrewd politics and selfless patriotism, Joe Biden is stepping aside to clear the path for another Democrat to become president…because there is nothing more important for our country than defeating Donald Trump at the ballot box.” He concluded with, “With respect, admiration, and affection, thank you Mr. President!”

Other Hollywood stars have also voiced their support for the 81-year-old president’s decision to step aside. Many are endorsing Harris to lead the party forward. Barbra Streisand wrote on X/Twitter that Biden will go down in history as a president who accomplished significant achievements in his four years. “We should be grateful for his upholding of our democracy,” she added.

Cher, while expressing her sadness, mentioned that it was time to pass the baton. “In my heart, I’m tortured because I don’t believe the Democrats can win the presidency with ‘Pres Biden’ ‘Joe,’ whom I’ve loved since we met in 2008,” she wrote on X/Twitter. “It’s time for Dems to think way outside the box. Maybe even a split ticket.”

Billie Eilish’s brother and musical collaborator Finneas posted a family photo on Instagram with the president, commenting, “I see a person putting the people before themselves and their pride today, and for that, I have an enormous amount of respect.”

Star Wars actor Mark Hamill issued a plea to Americans, urging them to elect a Democrat who will continue Biden’s legacy. “Joe Biden has a record of accomplishments unmatched by any president in our lifetime. He restored honesty, dignity, and integrity to the office after 4 years of lies, crime, scandal, and chaos,” Hamill wrote. “It’s now our duty as patriotic Americans to elect the Democrat who will honor and further your legacy.”

Comedian Kathy Griffin, known for her controversial photo holding a Trump effigy, wrote online, “Let’s make history!!!! Finally.”

Actress Jamie Lee Curtis supported Biden’s decision and endorsed Harris’s nomination, stating on Instagram: “She is trusted and tested, a fierce advocate for women’s rights and people of color. Her message is one of hope and unity for America at a time of great national divide.”

Talk show host and comedian Jon Stewart, who had previously criticized Biden’s reluctance to consider dropping out, reacted by simply calling him a “Legend.”

Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns praised Biden, saying he “will go down as one of the great ones.” He lauded Biden for his actions that were “bigger than self,” noting his leadership in guiding the country out of a disastrous term of his predecessor. Burns added, “Joe, I can’t imagine where we’d be without your selfless service.”

Abbott Elementary star Sheryl Lee Ralph shared a photo with Harris to celebrate Biden’s endorsement of the Vice President. “Truth Hurts” singer Lizzo posted a screenshot of the news on Instagram, writing, “We are truly living in unprecedented times.”

Oscar-winning director Spike Lee shared a picture of Harris with the caption: “Once again a sista comes to da rescue.”

Poor Things actor Mark Ruffalo commented on the future, writing, “No to Trump/Vance. No to the right-wing Christian religious takeover of our nation. Nothing wrong with Christianity; it just shouldn’t be running a nation birthed from freedom of religion.” He added hashtags like “#StopProject2025” and “#VoteBlue.”

Hollywood’s support for Biden’s decision comes weeks after several high-profile stars publicly called on Biden to exit the race, citing concerns about his capabilities post a poorly received debate against Trump.

George Clooney was among those who called for Biden to drop out, arguing in a New York Times opinion piece that the party should choose a new nominee. He acknowledged that the process would be “messy” but believed it would “wake up” voters in the Democrats’ favor.

Michael Douglas echoed Clooney’s sentiment, expressing deep concern about Biden’s prospects after the criticized debate performance. Speaking on The View, Douglas said, “I worry about a year down the line. I am concerned.”

Kamala Harris is now the frontrunner to take on Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election. She confirmed she will run to replace Biden just hours after the news broke that he was stepping aside. Though not officially crowned the presidential nominee yet, the Biden-Harris campaign has already amended its filings with the Federal Election Commission to declare Harris as its chosen candidate.

Source: New York Times