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‘West Wing’ Star Martin Sheen Visits the Actual White House

President Joe Biden, right, shakes hands with actor Martin Sheen as Biden prepares to board Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024, in Washington, en route for a short trip to Prince George’s County, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Actor Martin Sheen, famously known for his role in the political drama “The West Wing,” made a notable appearance at the White House on Thursday. He was accompanied by his former co-stars Mary McCormack and Melissa Fitzgerald. The trio met with President Joe Biden before Biden’s scheduled trip to Maryland with Vice President Kamala Harris.

Martin Sheen, who portrayed the fictional President Bartlet in the NBC drama, was seen on the South Lawn of the White House shaking hands with President Biden. CSPAN video captured the brief but warm interaction between Biden and Sheen.

After their exchange, President Biden proceeded to leave the South Lawn for his planned journey.

The specific reason for the visit by Sheen, McCormack, and Fitzgerald to the White House remains unclear. Their visit drew intrigue, especially given their backgrounds and past activities.

Mary McCormack and Melissa Fitzgerald are known for their book, “What’s Next: A Backstage Pass to ‘The West Wing,’” which explores the inner workings of the beloved series. Their comprehensive work included interviews with prominent figures such as Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), and Representative Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.).

Additionally, McCormack publicly expressed her steadfast support for Vice President Harris after Biden announced his exit from the political race. Her endorsement underscores the political engagement and advocacy that actors from “The West Wing” continue to exhibit beyond their on-screen roles.

Source: CSPAN, AP News