Watch Mark Ruffalo, Sarah Jessica Parker, Margaret Atwood, Judd Apatow and More Give Instructions to Combat Trump’s Tyranny on July 4th
On Independence Day 2026, Timothy Snyder's book "On Tyranny" formed the basis for a video featuring prominent entertainers, authors, and public intellectuals. The project, released exclusively by Variety, assembled celebrities including Mark Ruffalo, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Margaret Atwood to recite passages from Snyder's historical analysis of how democracies in 20th century Europe underwent transformation into authoritarian systems. The production positioned itself within contemporary debates about the strength of institutional safeguards.
The video presented practical lessons derived from Snyder's work for resisting authoritarianism, including defence of institutions and commitment to factual truth. Participating figures stressed that democratic governance requires ongoing engagement and vigilance from citizens, rather than existing as a permanently secured condition. The project articulated concerns regarding institutional erosion and advocated for recommitment to democratic structures, equality, and broad-based representation.
- On July 4th, dozens of celebrities recorded passages from Timothy Snyder's 2017 book "On Tyranny" for an exclusive Variety video addressing democratic governance.
- The book examines historical mechanisms by which 20th century European democracies deteriorated into authoritarian regimes.
- The project conveyed lessons about institutional defence and sustained public participation as necessary conditions for preserving democratic systems.