The 2024/2025 presidential election wasn’t only a fight of policies and platforms; it became one big, pop culture spectacle. From Hollywood legends to music icons, celebrities dived into the fray, backing Kamala Harris or Donald Trump, and turning rallies into star-studded events as social media buzzed with commentary. Here’s a look at the 10 most influential celebrity endorsements that grabbed headlines, sparked debate, and may even have swayed a few votes.
10. Surprising Crossovers
Some of these endorsements came right out of left field. The Terminator and former Republican governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger, shocked many minds when he came out to support Kamala Harris, citing that being American supersedes party loyalty and that a Trump presidency would fuel division and anger. In return, Mel Gibson supported Trump, citing Harris’s record and policies as immaterial. Such is the case when one considers celebrity endorsements: they can always catch someone off guard.
9. Sports Legends Speaking Out
Lebron James did more than post a basketball video; he recorded a video that called out Trump’s racist comments and encouraged his followers to vote for Harris. Magic Johnson also supported Harris, solidifying his endorsement from earlier in the election cycle. Meanwhile, Trump secured support from several sports figures, including NASCAR driver Danica Patrick and Hall of Famer Brett Favre, touting Trump’s pledges on education and public safety.
8. Film and Television Stars Enter Politics
Julia Roberts voiced campaign ads for Harris, urging women to vote their conscience, while Kerry Washington warned about Trump’s authoritarian tendencies. Trump’s camp countered with Sylvester Stallone introducing him at a post-election event and hailing him as “the second George Washington,” while Jon Voight continued his vocal support, claiming Trump was the country’s savior.
7. Music Icons Rally the Masses
Beyoncé spoke on stage at Harris’s Houston rally, invoking her role as a mother to urge voters to envision an unlimited future for their daughters. Taylor Swift’s endorsement of Harris went viral in a nanosecond, as her 283 million followers weighed in. Kid Rock rallied crowds for Trump at the Republican National Convention, while Jason Aldean called Trump a “warrior” after the president survived an assassination attempt.
6. Influencers and Reality TV Stars
Amber Rose, who once publicly feuded with Trump, declared a change of heart and spoke at the Republican National Convention in support, framing her endorsement through the lens of motherhood. Reality TV personality Savannah Chrisley also joined forces for Trump. For Harris, Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas championed reproductive rights and climate action. They called on huge online followings to mobilize younger voters.
5. Comedians and Talk Show Influencers
Oprah Winfrey didn’t just support Harris; she hosted interviews and spoke at the Democratic National Convention, touting Harris’ decency and integrity. Russell Brand reacted to Trump’s wins with irreverence; he energized supporters through humor and outrage.
4. Hollywood Heavyweights
A-listers like Meryl Streep, Steven Spielberg, and Anne Hathaway threw their weight behind Harris, lending a touch of gravitas to her campaign. Supporters for Trump included Dennis Quaid, who was full of praise for his presidency, while Roseanne Barr continued with her outspoken antics and even joked about joining Trump’s team.
3. Dramatic and Controversial Endorsements
It was impossible to look past Elon Musk’s endorsement of Trump-he called himself “dark, gothic MAGA” and dropped millions into pro-Trump PACs. Dr. Phil materialized at a Trump rally, heralding him as “tough as an old army boot.” Cardi B, a supporter of Harris, was vocal about her frustrations after Trump’s victory, airing her displeasure everywhere online.
2. Rally Performances That Stole the Show
Campaign events became a spectacle. Eminem introduced Barack Obama at a Harris rally, merging politics with hip-hop. Events began turning into mini-music festivals with the likes of Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Ricky Martin, and Christina Aguilera performing. Trump’s rallies had their moments as well: Hulk Hogan, in support, ripped off his tank top; Jason Aldean, who often appeared, created viral highlights.
1. Celebrity Endorsements That Mattered Most
Taylor Swift’s endorsement of Harris was arguably the most impactful, inspiring instant fan frenzy and even a public social media jab from Trump. Beyoncé’s Houston rally appearance merged motherhood, activism, and music into a cultural moment. In Trump’s corner, Elon Musk’s financial backing and appearances brought a tech-fueled boost, and Kid Rock and Hulk Hogan brought energy, spectacle, and viral attention.
The election of 2024/2025 proved that in today’s America, politics and pop culture are mutually reinforcing. Celebrity endorsements didn’t just make headlines; they amplified messages, constructed narratives, and converted this election into a blockbuster event that will be remembered as much for its star power as for its political outcomes.