Artists need to continue advocating for truth in light of Donald Trump’s election victory, according to the renowned Scottish actor Brian Cox.
Cox, known for his role as Logan Roy in the popular HBO series Succession, expressed concern about the current state of the world, stating that it has never been more perilous than it is now. Reflecting on the US election campaign and the prospect of a second Trump presidency, Cox emphasized the importance of artists speaking out against injustices.
He praised figures like Mark Ruffalo for their dedication to social justice and vowed to continue criticizing Trump. Cox stressed the need for artists to uphold the truth, which he believes has been distorted in recent years.
During a virtual appearance on Channel 4 alongside former UK prime minister Boris Johnson, Cox publicly expressed his disdain for Trump, which garnered attention online. The 78-year-old actor, who divides his time between London and New York, admitted feeling deeply disheartened by the election results and expressed a sense of resignation in the face of the situation.
Commenting on Trump’s unexpected success in the election, Cox questioned the loyalty of certain demographics, such as Catholic voters, to a candidate with such apparent moral failings. He expressed concern for his sons living in America, highlighting Trump’s self-centered nature and unpredictable behavior.
Trump secured the necessary electoral college votes by winning key battleground states and expanding his support among various voter groups. Cox criticized the current state of the US, labeling it as chaotic and expressing disappointment in the divisive rhetoric used during the campaign.
Regarding the Democratic party, Cox pointed out their shortcomings in addressing issues like the war in the Middle East and reproductive rights. He condemned the treatment of women as second-class citizens and called for a more progressive approach to these issues.
Cox also highlighted the urgent need to address the climate crisis, pointing out Trump’s dismissal of the issue despite overwhelming evidence. He emphasized the critical role of artists in speaking out against injustice and advocating for positive change.
Despite his extensive acting career, Cox stated that he would never consider portraying Trump on screen, citing the lack of virtue in the character. He remained steadfast in his commitment to speaking truth to power and advocating for a better future for all.