From Calling Out Biden to Embodying Murrow on Broadway

George Clooney, a prominent figure in the Democratic Party, recently made headlines by calling on Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race due to concerns about his mental capacity. Clooney, known for his outspoken nature, felt compelled to speak out despite the potential backlash. He believes that telling the truth, even when uncomfortable, is essential.

Clooney's stance on truth-telling aligns with his upcoming Broadway debut, where he will portray legendary journalist Edward R. Murrow in an adaptation of his film "Good Night, and Good Luck." Murrow, considered a pioneer of broadcast news, famously challenged Senator Joe McCarthy during the Red Scare of the 1950s. Clooney sees parallels between Murrow's time and the present, where truth is increasingly seen as negotiable.

The play's transition to Broadway stems from its cinematic origins. The film version, co-written by Clooney and Grant Heslov, was originally conceived as a live TV movie but was scrapped after the Janet Jackson Super Bowl incident. Despite its theatrical nature, the play will incorporate footage of the real McCarthy and a newsroom-like setting with vintage monitors.

Clooney's return to Murrow's story coincides with a period of heightened scrutiny towards journalists, particularly from the current administration. While the play's timing is coincidental, it resonates with the contemporary climate. Clooney's father, a veteran journalist himself, instilled in him a deep respect for truth and its role in a functioning society.

Clooney joins a star-studded lineup of Hollywood actors making their Broadway debuts this season. Despite his fame, he insists on not being the highest-paid actor, advocating for fair compensation for seasoned performers like Patti LuPone. He attributes the high ticket prices to the allure of Murrow's words, which offer solace and encourage dialogue in a turbulent time.

Clooney's last full-length play was in 1986, and he acknowledges the daunting prospect of returning to the stage after such a long hiatus. He views this opportunity as a chance to fulfill a lifelong dream and contribute to a story he deeply believes in.