Bette Midler’s appearance at a star-studded anti-Trump concert has sparked a fierce online backlash, with critics labelling the veteran entertainer’s performance “humiliating”.
The 80-year-old singer and actress took the stage during Rise Up, Sing Out: A Concert for the First Amendment, a New York City event organised by actress and activist Jane Fonda as a counter-programming effort to President Donald Trump’s UFC-themed White House celebration.
The concert featured a number of prominent liberal celebrities and activists, including Robert De Niro, Julia Roberts, Patti Smith, and other outspoken Trump critics.
Ms Midler’s performance quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the evening after clips circulated across social media platforms.
The actress performed at the Rise Up, Sing Out: A Concert for the First Amendmen
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During her appearance, the legendary performer sang a modified version of Woody Guthrie’s anti-fascist folk song All You Fascists Bound to Lose, incorporating contemporary political references and criticism of immigration enforcement policies.
While supporters praised Ms Midler for using her platform to express her political views, many online critics reacted harshly to the performance.
Social media users mocked the production, with some describing it as awkward and out of touch. Others questioned whether celebrity political activism still resonates with the public in the way it once did.
One penned on X: “Holy moly this is sooooo painfully bad…”
Ms Midler sang Woody Guthrie’s, All You Fascists Bound to Lose
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“OMG. I regret to inform you ‘liberals’ are singing again. Good lord, second-hand embarrassment is real,” another wrote before a third said: “This gave me second hand embarassment, how cringe.”
Someone else noted: “Bette Midler was an iconic, masterful performer. Take a few minutes and listen to ‘The Rose’ or the 1997 ‘Hello Dolly’ cast album. I’m stunned to see how far she fell of the rails. The mess she is singing is just embarrassing.”
Another critic suggested the event felt disconnected from everyday voters, arguing that Hollywood celebrities continue to misread the political mood of the country.
Some viewers praised the performance, as one expressed: “Absolute icon! Always serving up highs and lows with that voice. What a legend.”
Ms Fonda was accompanied by many actors and activists
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Another agreed: “There’s something about Bette Midler that just brings joy and a touch of brilliance to the world. Her presence reminds us how powerful art can be in shaping lives and moments.” (sic)
The backlash was not limited to Ms Midler alone. Other performers and speakers who participated in the event also faced criticism online, as opponents mocked the concert’s messaging and accused organisers of preaching to an already supportive audience.
Commentary surrounding the event intensified because it was held in direct opposition to President Trump’s highly publicised UFC Freedom 250 celebration, which dominated headlines throughout the weekend.
Despite the criticism, organisers defended the concert as an effort to promote free speech and civic engagement.
Ms Roberts was among many famous faces
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Ms Fonda, who helped spearhead the event through the Committee for the First Amendment, described the gathering as a response to what participants view as growing threats to democratic institutions and artistic freedom.
The concert was livestreamed nationally and attracted significant attention from both supporters and detractors.
Ms Midler has long been one of Mr Trump’s most vocal celebrity critics, frequently using both public appearances and social media to comment on political issues.
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