Ben Stiller is rallying the comedy world with words of wisdom as challenges mount in the wake of Donald Trump’s second term as U.S. President.
The multi-talented actor-director-producer behind classic comedies took a reflective turn during a recent interview with Radio Times magazine. While promoting his new Apple TV documentary, Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost, Stiller offered heartfelt guidance to his fellow comedians.
\\”We live in a world where taking chances with comedy is more challenging,\\” Stiller said. \\”You’re seeing that front and center in our country.\\”
He stressed the importance of speaking out and taking risks, saying,
\\”But I think it’s important that comedians keep doing what they’re doing, speaking truth to power and being free to say what they want. That’s the most important thing.\\”
Stiller’s remarks came shortly after Disney momentarily paused the airing of Jimmy Kimmel Live!. A September 15 segment with Jimmy Kimmel drew backlash online and criticism from FCC chair Brendan Carr. In the segment, Kimmel remarked, \\”We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.\\”
Stiller, a vocal critic of Trump and an ally of Kamala Harris, joined the chorus of Hollywood figures denouncing Kimmel’s suspension. He expressed his disapproval on X, asserting, \\”This isn’t right.\\” His advocacy for Harris was also visible ahead of the 2024 presidential election, when he participated in the \\”Unite For America\\” call led by Oprah Winfrey.
While Stiller has shifted towards television, notably producing the acclaimed drama Severance, his comedic legacy is ever-present, with hits like Zoolander and Tropic Thunder cementing his place in Hollywood.
Reporting based on the original article; quotes reproduced verbatim.
