Drea de Matteo, an Emmy-winning actress renowned for her role in HBO’s “The Sopranos,” recently articulated her disillusionment with President Biden’s policies during an interview on Donald Trump Jr.’s podcast, “Triggered.” De Matteo, who has previously voiced her discontent with cancel culture and even launched a streetwear brand called “Ultrafree” to promote free speech, shared her evolving perspectives on political and social issues.
The discussion opened with de Matteo recounting her change in attitude towards immigration policies, catalyzed by what she perceives as chaos at the U.S. border. This shift was highlighted by her reference to a cap inscribed with “Close the border you moron,” indicating a stark departure from her previous support for Biden, which was initially motivated by sympathy towards immigrants. Her dialogue with Trump Jr. explored the complexities of her stance, reflecting a broader skepticism about the intentions of immigrants, particularly describing them as “able-bodied, fighting-age men” whose purposes in the U.S. she questioned.
Trump Jr. used the opportunity to probe whether other actors in Hollywood shared her skepticism towards leftist policies without openly declaring it. He mentioned meeting some of de Matteo’s former co-stars who didn’t fit the typical liberal mold but remained quiet publicly. De Matteo expressed that while many might share her views, they lack the courage to speak out due to the prevailing atmosphere of political correctness and fear of being ostracized.
De Matteo also criticized the Biden administration for what she sees as manipulative tactics using social agendas as tools to further political aims, which, in her view, only served to deepen national divisions. She argued that the administration’s approach to issues of race, gender, and unity was disingenuous and counterproductive, citing personal freedom and true unity as her core values, starkly contrasting with the government’s methods.
The actress spoke about the personal transformation that enabled her to voice her opinions more freely. Initially hesitant, feeling that she lacked both the platform and the courage, she described how being “thrown to the wolves” pushed her to a point of no return, leading her to adopt a more outspoken stance. Supported by her family and personal convictions, de Matteo now embraces her role in the public debate over America’s political and social trajectory.
This conversation sheds light on the tension many public figures face in Hollywood, balancing personal beliefs with professional expectations in an industry that often favors a particular political ideology. De Matteo’s candidness provides a glimpse into the private conflicts and decisions of those in the entertainment sector who may disagree with the prevailing socio-political narrative but choose to remain silent. Her experience underscores the complex dynamics of identity, expression, and belonging in the high-stakes environment of American celebrity culture.
Overall, de Matteo’s interview with Trump Jr. is not just a personal revelation but a commentary on the broader cultural and political divides, reflecting the challenges and risks associated with public dissent in an era of intense polarization and media scrutiny.