Whoopi Goldberg defends Carrie Underwood’s performance at Donald Trump’s inauguration amidst backlash from fans.
At a Glance
- Whoopi Goldberg supports Carrie Underwood’s right to perform at Trump’s inauguration.
- Goldberg emphasizes respect for artists’ freedom of choice, despite personal disagreements.
- Carrie Underwood faces backlash on social media from fans and LGBT+ supporters.
- Other performers include The Village People alongside Underwood.
Goldberg’s Defense of Underwood
Whoopi Goldberg took a stance in support of Carrie Underwood’s decision to perform at Donald Trump’s inauguration event, amidst backlash from some of her fans. Known for her critical views on Trump’s policies, Goldberg surprised many by defending Underwood’s right to make her own artistic decisions. Regardless of her personal political opinions, Goldberg expressed a commitment to honoring the independence of artists when choosing where and when to perform.
“People do what they do for whatever reason… I stand behind her.” Goldberg reiterated the principle of supporting a fellow artist’s choice. While Goldberg herself would not perform at the inauguration, she honored Underwood’s decision, encouraging respectful discourse over the matter. Goldberg’s defense underlined her belief in allowing artists the autonomy to choose their engagements.
Reactions from Co-Hosts and Public
Various reactions followed Goldberg’s defense of Underwood, reflecting a broader societal divide. Co-host Sunny Hostin relayed her decision to take a spa day instead of watching the inauguration. Meanwhile, Alyssa Farrah Griffin expressed optimism about society moving beyond cancel culture, noting that Underwood’s performance might endear her to right-leaning audiences. On the other hand, Joy Behar voiced her disagreement with Underwood’s choice, citing Trump’s legal challenges.
“I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the Inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event. I am humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future.” – Carrie Underwood
The backlash Underwood faced on social media was significant, with fans expressing disappointment and threats to boycott her future music. Criticism also came from some in the LGBT+ community, pointing to her prior support for gay marriage as inconsistent with performing for a president they oppose. Underwood responded by reiterating her intent for unity.
Performance and Future Implications
Critics and supporters alike are watching for the impact of Underwood’s performance, which includes a rendition of “America the Beautiful” with the Armed Forces Choir and the United States Naval Academy Glee Club. This choice represents not only a musical contribution but also a personal stance amid politically charged atmospheres. While Underwood has generally avoided public political discourse, this event positions her uniquely in the eyes of the public and media.
“If I believe I have the right to make up my mind to go perform some place, I believe (she has) the same right. I have to support. It doesn’t mean I’m particularly interested.” – Whoopi Goldberg.
Underwood’s scheduled appearance alongside The Village People emphasizes the diversity of artists participating. As the event unfolds, its reverberations on Underwood’s career and broader societal dialogues remain a point of curiosity. The performance might reframe or reinforce public opinions about celebrity involvement in political events, offering insights into the consequences for artists navigating such engagements.
Sources
1. Whoopi Goldberg defends Carrie Underwood after Donald Trump performance backlash
