A History of Selective Advocacy

The late 2010s witnessed a powerful surge in activism, particularly with the rise of the #MeToo movement. A-list actresses were vocal at Women’s Marches, protesting the policies of President Donald Trump and the confirmation hearings of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh. This period demonstrated a willingness to leverage celebrity platforms for political and social causes.

However, that same fervor appeared conspicuously absent when allegations surfaced against then-presidential candidate Joe Biden. Despite a serious accusation of sexual assault by a former staffer, many of the same voices who championed “believe all women” either remained silent or actively defended Biden, creating a clear double standard. This inconsistency was further highlighted when Gina Carano was terminated by Disney/Lucasfilm following a controversial social media post, with minimal support from those same advocates.

Did You Know?: The concept of “performative activism” – expressing support for a cause primarily to enhance one’s own image – has become increasingly prevalent in the digital age, raising questions about the sincerity of some public displays of solidarity.

This pattern of selective outrage is now repeating itself with the release of “Melania.” The documentary, chronicling Mrs. Trump’s life and potential future, has been met with a barrage of negative reviews, some of which have crossed the line into personal attacks. Critics have resorted to ad hominem arguments, focusing on Mrs. Trump’s appearance and voice rather than the merits of the film itself. One review in The Guardian mocked Melania Trump’s face and voice, a practice that drew swift condemnation and a previous apology from another outlet when a similar tactic was used against Carey Mulligan in 2021. Variety issued a swift apology after a critic’s comments were deemed unprofessional.

The “Nazi Card” and Manufactured Outrage

The attacks haven’t stopped at superficial critiques. Some media outlets have even employed inflammatory rhetoric, invoking comparisons to Nazi propaganda. This tactic, used against both Mrs. Trump and the film itself, is a blatant attempt to discredit the project through association and emotional manipulation. The claim that the film was failing to attract audiences was quickly debunked when The Hollywood Reporter reported a projected $8 million opening weekend in North America.

Box Office: ‘Melania’ Heading for Surprise $8 Million Opening in North America https://t.co/dmeQIqinvM

— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) January 31, 2026

Even USA Today weighed in, arguing it was patriotic to attack the film without having seen it. This demonstrates a clear bias and a willingness to engage in pre-emptive condemnation.

This isn’t an isolated incident. Previously, Sacha Baron Cohen’s sexualization of Mrs. Trump during the first Trump administration and Jimmy Kimmel’s similar actions were met with silence from the same feminist groups who were quick to condemn other perceived offenses. TBS, however, did offer a groveling apology after mocking Hillary Clinton’s laugh, highlighting the inconsistency in responses.

Pro Tip: Always critically evaluate the source of information and consider potential biases before accepting claims at face value. Look for evidence-based reporting and avoid relying solely on opinion pieces.

Where Are the Defenders?

The question remains: where are the A-list actresses and prominent feminist voices who were so quick to speak out in the past? Why the deafening silence now? Is it because Melania Trump doesn’t fit the narrative of a “victim” they are willing to champion? Or is it simply a reflection of a deeper hypocrisy within Hollywood’s feminist circles?

As one observer noted, “We may disagree on politics, but all First Ladies deserve our respect. Treating Mrs. Trump in this fashion is pure misogyny.” Yet, the sound bites of support remain conspicuously absent.

What does this silence say about the true motivations behind Hollywood’s selective outrage? And what does it reveal about the state of feminist advocacy in the entertainment industry?

Frequently Asked Questions About Hollywood’s Response