George Takei accuses Dwayne Johnson of 'complicity' after actor refuses to speak out about politics
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Dwayne Johnson has found himself at the center of a growing Hollywood debate after choosing to remain silent on political issues. Now 'Star Trek' actor George Takei has slammed the 'Moana' actor and said, "Silence is Complicity."
His remarks, originally made in an interview with Esquire magazine, have sparked backlash from fellow actors who argue that public figures have a responsibility to speak out on social issues.
Dwayne Johnson gets slammed by George Takei
The controversy began after Johnson stated in a recent interview that he would no longer publicly discuss politics, saying he wants to focus on his work in film and entertainment. His comments quickly went viral, drawing criticism from several Hollywood figures like Takei and social media users.
Even actor Wil Wheaton, best known for 'Stand By Me,' joined the criticism, saying, “So disappointing to find out he is such a coward.” The 'Moana' actor expanded on his growing discomfort with political discussion in a recent interview with Esquire.
He explained that he has learned through experience that he needs to “keep - need, not want - the main thing. And the main thing for me, the thing that in the morning I swing my legs out of bed, and I run towards, is creating."
"It’s art. It’s storytelling. I’ve learned I’m going to keep my politics to myself.” He also added that there are still moments where discussion is possible, saying, “There are moments when, hey, there’s nothing we can’t talk about. If I’m wrong, I’ll tell you I’m wrong."
"Or if I feel like I got a leg up and this is the right way to go, I’ll share it with you.” He went on to describe politics as constant and draining, saying, “Politics is omnipresent, and it’s forever. I don’t like it. I hate it at times. I hate the slinging. I hate all that comes with it.”
Dwayne Johnson and Jennifer Lawrence draw attention in celebrity politics debate
Johnson previously addressed his political stance in a 2024 interview with Fox News, reflecting on his decision to endorse Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential election.
He said it had created division among his supporters, explaining: “My goal is to bring this country together. I believe in that. There will be no endorsement. At this level of influence, I will keep my politics to myself. It is between me and the ballot box.”
His comments have resurfaced as part of a wider debate about whether entertainers should publicly share political opinions, leading to renewed discussion and criticism online.
Jennifer Lawrence has also been drawn into a similar conversation. During last year’s press tour for 'Die My Love', she spoke to The New York Times about her increasing hesitation to engage with political topics in media appearances.
Her remarks sparked debate, with some questioning whether celebrities are pulling back from political expression despite their large public platforms and influence.
