Hollywood legend Woody Allen shocked many in his own political camp over the weekend when he offered glowing praise for President Donald Trump. Appearing on Bill Maher’s podcast “Club Random,” the famously progressive filmmaker recalled working with Trump on his 1998 movie Celebrity and described the future president as a natural performer.
“He was a pleasure to work with and a very good actor,” Allen said. “He was very polite and hit his mark and did everything correctly and had a real flair for show business.”
Allen went on to say that Trump’s charisma was undeniable on set, admitting that he would even like another chance to direct him. “I only wish I could direct him now. If he would let me direct him now that he’s president, I think I could do wonders,” Allen joked, which drew laughs from Maher.
Maher himself noted that such comments could get Allen “canceled,” but he defended the filmmaker’s honesty. “He’s different in person. And when you say that, people who are just purely emotional get very upset, even though it’s just the truth,” Maher said.
The exchange is noteworthy because both men are reliable Democrats and cultural figures who typically oppose Trump on policy. Yet in this setting, both were willing to acknowledge Trump’s talent and charm, even if doing so risks outrage from the progressive left. Allen underscored this point by clarifying his political allegiance while still recognizing Trump’s ability. “I am a Democrat. I voted for Kamala Harris. And I take issue with him on 95% of the things, maybe 99%. But as an actor, he was very good,” Allen explained.
Allen admitted he was surprised Trump pursued politics at all. “Politics is nothing but headaches and critical decisions and agony. And this was a guy I used to see at the Knick games. He liked to play golf and judge beauty contests and do things that were enjoyable and relaxing. Why anyone would want to suddenly deal with the issues of politics is beyond me. But apparently he doesn’t mind,” Allen said.
Maher closed the conversation by blasting his own side for demonizing anyone who so much as speaks with Trump. “The stupidest thing the left does is having this attitude toward the right that: ‘We won’t even break bread with you.’ That makes me sick too,” Maher said.
It was a rare moment of honesty in Hollywood, where saying anything remotely positive about Trump usually brings career-ending fury.
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