George Clooney has defended Mark Ruffalo while addressing the controversy surrounding Paramount’s acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. The Academy Award winner addressed the controversy during a press event at the Venice Film Festival.
Paramount had criticized Ruffalo’s comments about the Warner Bros. deal, labeling them “antisemitic.” According to The Hollywood Reporter, Clooney rejected the idea of restricting Ruffalo’s ability to express his views. The Jay Kelly star backed his fellow actor and stressed the importance of free speech, even when others disagree.
“I support Mark Ruffalo’s ability to speak freely. I think that that’s ridiculous. We’re not going to ban speech,” Clooney said. “I believe in free speech even when I completely disagree with it.”
The 65-year-old also supported the Hulk star personally, calling him a “good man.” Speaking on the merger, Clooney called the deal a “complicated thing” and questioned whether it benefits anyone involved, including WBD architect David Ellison.
“My opinion on the merger is: I always worry whenever big companies are consolidating because it usually means a lot of people lose their jobs,” Clooney concluded.
George Clooney celebrates 40-plus years in Hollywood with Venice honor
The veteran actor and filmmaker is celebrating more than four decades in Hollywood as the Venice Film Festival honors him with its prestigious Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement. The award recognizes his contributions as an actor, director, and producer.
The honor is being presented at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival, recognizing Clooney’s lasting contribution to cinema. Accepting the honor, the 65-year-old called Venice his favorite festival and joked that the award “probably means I’m old, but I’ll take it.”
Clooney is making a guest appearance in Call My Agent! The Movie, which is set to premiere on Netflix on September 10, 2026. The 65-year-old actor is also set to reprise his role as Danny Ocean in Ocean’s 14 alongside Matt Damon, Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts, and more.
Originally reported by Manoj Chekkilla on ComingSoon.net.
