Woody Allen praises Donald Trump as a good actor despite political differences

In a recent interview on Bill Maher's podcast 'Club Random,' filmmaker Woody Allen discussed his experience directing Donald Trump in the 1998 film 'Celebrity.' Despite being a Democrat and not supporting Trump's political views, Allen emphatically stated that Trump was a 'pleasure to work with' and highlighted his acting skills. He expressed surprise that Trump chose a career in politics, praising his charismatic presence on screen. Allen's remarks come amidst a backdrop of controversy surrounding his own career, marked by allegations of misconduct, which he has consistently denied. In the same interview, he criticized cancel culture while acknowledging the #MeToo movement's contributions toward advancing women's rights. During their conversation, Maher and Allen touched on the challenges both have faced in their careers due to public scrutiny. Allen discussed how he has been effectively blacklisted from Hollywood, attributing it primarily to actions taken by the political left. Despite the challenges posed by his legal troubles, he stated he remains financially comfortable due to his extensive filmography. Allen also argued that the phenomenon of cancel culture is detrimental, equating it to historical episodes like the McCarthy era. This discussion of performers facing backlash for their personal lives and opinions resonated strongly with both men, who reflected on the implications of such a culture on artistic expression. Moreover, Allen reiterated his opposition to the cancellation of individuals for their past actions, emphasizing a need for fair treatment and understanding. He suggested that many who disavow him do so with the belief they are doing the right thing, but he considers them mistaken in their judgments. Allen concluded by mentioning that he has plans for future works, including a play staged in Europe and a novel forthcoming, indicating his desire to continue being engaged in creative endeavors. Overall, this interview not only served as a platform for Allen to share his views on Trump but also offered a reflective look at the current state of the entertainment industry, where political affiliations and personal accusations often overshadow artistic accomplishments. The dialogue prompted a broader discussion on the importance of separation between personal beliefs and professional capabilities, particularly in an industry increasingly fraught with peril for those who dare to express dissent from the prevailing narratives.