Pharrell Williams blasted for being 'annoyed' by celeb political endorsements as Taylor Swift backs Harris
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Pharrell Williams is under fire for his recent remarks regarding celebrity political endorsements, declaring that he doesn’t “do politics” and finds such endorsements “annoying.”
The 51-year-old musician's comments gained traction following an interview with the Hollywood Reporter, where he candidly discussed his stance.
Pharrell Williams declares his detachment from politics, critiques celebrity influence on elections
“I don’t really do politics,” Williams stated, noting that while he has strong opinions on certain issues like education, he doesn't consider himself an activist. “I’m not an activist, but I believe in action. But I do believe in activists, and you need everybody.”
Williams expressed frustration with celebrities trying to influence public opinion on candidates. “There are celebrities that I respect that have an opinion, but not all of them. I’m one of them people [who says], ‘What the heck? Shut up. Nobody asked you,’” he remarked.
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He added, “When people get out there and get self-righteous... and they are out there walking around with a placard: ‘Shut up!’ So, no, I would rather stay out of the way, and obviously, I’m going to vote how I’m going to vote.”
Williams emphasized that while he cares about his community and the nation, he believes in focusing on actionable work rather than celebrity opinions.
Pharrell Williams faces social media backlash as celebrities rally behind 2024 candidates
His comments sparked a wave of backlash, particularly on social media, where fans criticized him on his latest Instagram post promoting Tiffany & Co pearl earrings.
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Amid these remarks, several celebrities have already publicly endorsed candidates for the upcoming 2024 presidential election. Taylor Swift recently backed Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz, calling Harris a “steady-handed, gifted leader.”
Swift praised Walz for his longstanding support of LGBTQ+ rights and women’s reproductive rights.
Other notable endorsements for Harris have come from celebrities like George Clooney, Billie Eilish, Megan Thee Stallion, Beyoncé, Charli XCX, and Barbra Streisand. On the other side, Republican nominee Donald Trump has received endorsements from figures such as Elon Musk, Kid Rock, and Amber Rose.
Fans call out Pharrell for his criticism of celebrity endorsements, defend Taylor Swift's political stance
Fans quickly rallied to defend Taylor Swift against Pharrell Williams's recent criticism of celebrity political endorsements.
Pharrell Williams says he gets annoyed by celebrities speaking on politics:
— Pop Base (@PopBase) September 17, 2024
“I don’t do politics. In fact, I get annoyed sometimes when I see celebrities trying to tell you [who to vote for]… I’m one of them people [who says], ‘What the heck? Shut up. Nobody asked you.’” pic.twitter.com/nRe2y4CMPm
One user wrote, "Your criticism of Taylor Swift for endorsing @vp is, unfortunately, misguided. trump has been using AI to falsely claim @taylorswift is endorsing him. It was important for her to make her true endorsement known! You have also performed at benefits supporting causes and I find your criticism hypocritical as well. Finally, this is NOT a typical election! Trump is a danger to our country and our democracy and everyone who has a platform should not be afraid to voice their opinion."
Another user replied, "Taylor Swift is the most famous person on the planet right now, and the whole world was waiting for her to take sides. She made 400.000 people register. So what do you mean no one asked you? Maybe you’re just pressed that no one gives a fuck about YOUR opinion. If it wasn’t for Taylor, I wouldn’t even remember you exist."
"You could’ve just kept your mouth shut when it came to politics," a user slammed Pharrell.
One person commented, "You’re staying out of politics is giving “shut up and dribble” vibes. wtf has happened to you. The game has gotten to your head. You continue to disappoint your fans, especially VA…with that whack festival announcement."
Another replied,"I was shocked that you told the Hollywood Reporter that celebrities should shut up about who they are endorsing!! After Taylor Swift endorsed Harris. That sounds like @LVMH wrote that for you!"
"You need to realize who your supporters are. The people who keep you fed! Once you people reach a certain amount of success, you forget where you come from..." one said.
One added, "If you think politics don’t affect you… you’re privileged and out of touch."
If you think politics don’t affect you… you’re privileged and out of touch.
— Ash (@AshMetax) September 17, 2024
Another said, "Just because YOU don’t do politics doesn’t mean other celebrities can’t… And just because YOU weren’t asked who you were voting for (because nobody cares) doesn’t mean other celebrities aren’t asked."
Just because YOU don’t do politics doesn’t mean other celebrities can’t… And just because YOU weren’t asked who you were voting for (because nobody cares) doesn’t mean other celebrities aren’t asked.
— paulie ⚓️ (@ratedpaulie) September 17, 2024
One added, "You're irrelevant anyway @Pharrell".
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