Celebrities Unite Against Authoritarianism: The Nationwide “No Kings” Protests
Prominent figures such as Mark Ruffalo, Jimmy Kimmel, and Kerry Washington are rallying together in support of the “No Kings” protests, which are sweeping across the nation in response to President Donald Trump’s increasingly authoritarian actions. These protests have mobilized thousands of individuals from New York City to Austin and Los Angeles, where tensions between citizens and federal policies have escalated dramatically.
In a controversial move, Trump has deployed 2,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to California without the approval of state leaders, igniting outrage among communities opposing the aggressive increase in ICE raids. During an MSNBC interview, Ruffalo, who participated in the New York City rally alongside Susan Sarandon, expressed his concerns: “Our democracy is in serious jeopardy. We have a president acting like a king and dictator, while the opposition seems powerless to defend our constitutional rights. This is a daily battle, with executive orders and the unlawful detention of immigrants.”
Ruffalo emphasized the importance of unity among the people, saying, “The only way to combat this crisis is for us to come together.” He criticized the president for disregarding the principles established by the Founding Fathers, noting, “We fought to separate the military from the Executive Branch to prevent dictators from using military force against their own people. What’s happening in California sends a message that the Constitution is being ignored, and it undermines the sacrifices made by our military throughout history.”
He also pointed out the real culprits behind America’s struggles, stating, “It’s not immigrants taking from our country; it’s a small group of billionaires and those in power who are hoarding wealth and resources, leaving many feeling desperate.” Ruffalo concluded, “This movement represents a reimagining of America and a recommitment to our democratic ideals.”
Echoing these sentiments, Kerry Washington joined the rally in Santa Monica, holding signs with fellow actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus that read, “The only Monarch I like is a butterfly.” Washington highlighted the creativity of the protest signs, including one that stated, “Keep ICE in my drinks, not my streets.”
Glenn Close also voiced her support on Instagram, participating in a massive protest in Bozeman, Montana. In her heartfelt message, she expressed her outrage at the violent undercurrents surfacing on a day meant for peaceful demonstrations, following the politically motivated shootings of two Minnesota lawmakers. “This isn’t about shouting slogans or spreading hate,” she wrote. “It’s about the calm, unified presence of millions of Americans who refuse to let our country be sold to a wannabe king and his ruthless puppeteers.”
Other celebrities such as Marisa Tomei and Dan Bucatinsky joined the West Hollywood rally, with Bucatinsky commenting on the importance of showing what democracy looks like. Ayo Edebiri attended alongside Patti Harrison, carrying signs that read, “I love you & I have your back! Stay Brave!” as well as “F— ICE, F— Trump.”
Jimmy Kimmel, who rallied in South Bay with his parents, shared a positive message about the inspiring turnout on Instagram, stating, “I met many people who love this country and believe it can be a force for good. It’s heartening to see so many Americans stand up for their neighbors and friends.” He concluded with the simple yet powerful mantra, “Love one another.”
Mary Elizabeth Ellis, a participant in the L.A. protest, shared videos and images of attendees chanting, “ICE go home!” while holding signs that read, “Fascism has no place in America.”
The protests also saw the presence of Nadya Tolokonnikova’s Pussy Riot, a Russian feminist collective, who joined forces with a group of women in red balaclavas, showcasing a banner that stated, “It’s beginning to look a lot like Russia.”
Insecure and The White Lotus star Natasha Rothwell, known for her relentless social media critiques of Trump, carried a sign declaring, “You are trash,” further emphasizing the collective demand for change.
As celebrities and everyday citizens unite in these powerful demonstrations, the message is clear: Americans are standing together to protect their democratic principles and push back against authoritarianism.
