Actress Tatiana Maslany criticised celebrities including Tom Selleck and Michael Jordan for avoiding public political discussions, describing that stance as “cowardly”. Speaking on Mehdi Hasan’s podcast, she argued that artists have a responsibility to reflect society and address political issues, while maintaining that entertainment is inherently political because it conveys viewpoints and values.

Maslany said wealthy celebrities might fear losing professional opportunities or income if they speak out. Her comments followed her public support for the Free Palestine movement and criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza. A Media Research Center representative defended celebrities’ right to remain politically neutral and cited Dolly Parton as an example of someone who supported causes privately; representatives for Selleck and Jordan did not immediately respond.