Michael Keaton is under fire for calling Charlie Kirk’s assassination “ironic,” sparking outrage from fans and fueling an online debate over Hollywood and gun violence.
Actor Michael Keaton is facing fierce backlash after making controversial remarks about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Kirk, 31, was fatally shot on September 10 while speaking during a campus debate at Utah Valley University. Prosecutors say 22-year-old Tyler Robinson has been charged with seven counts related to the attack and could face the death penalty if convicted.
In the days since, several public figures have come under scrutiny for their reactions to Kirk’s death. Wrestler Dwayne Johnson’s daughter, Ava Raine, was criticized for reposting a cryptic message many believed was about Kirk. UK punk band Bob Vylan bluntly called Kirk a “piece of s***,” while MSNBC analyst Matthew Dowd lost his job after sharing remarks about “hateful thoughts.”
Now, Keaton has become the latest to stir outrage.
Keaton’s Statement
While speaking at the Investigative Reporters and Editors’ 50th anniversary gala on September 15, Keaton appeared to offer condolences but also noted what he described as the “irony” of Kirk being gunned down, given the activist’s outspoken opposition to gun control.
“Regardless of how I probably—not probably—have disagreed with many things he said, Charlie Kirk leaves behind two kids and a wife. You gotta remember that,” Keaton said.
He added:
“Because in the end, shooting people will never answer anything, and the irony that he was killed with a gun is unbelievable.”
Online Backlash
Almost immediately, Keaton’s comments divided opinion online. Kirk’s supporters blasted him, with some calling the actor a “moron” and “garbage.”
One critic wrote:
“This is why so many people checked out of watching anything Hollywood creates. Third grade education on display again.”
Another argued:
“The only irony is that far-left subhumans who scream for gun control keep using guns to hurt innocent Americans. Hypocrite.”
Still, not everyone saw the remarks as offensive. One user countered:
“He disagreed with Kirk. He said it’s ironic Kirk was shot with a gun. What’s so offensive? Y’all need to take it easy.”
As of now, Keaton’s representatives have not publicly responded to the controversy.
The debate highlights once again the deep divisions between Hollywood and political America, where even condolences can spark heated battles online.
Featured Image Credit: Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images / Josh Edelson/AFP via Getty Images
