Donald Trump humiliated as Hollywood star issues scathing two-word verdict

Hollywood actor Richard Gere has once again spoken out strongly against Donald Trump, delivering a passionate critique of the former president’s leadership and warning of its lasting impact on the United States.

During a recent event in Barcelona marking the 10th anniversary of Open Arms, a Spanish NGO dedicated to migrant rescue missions, Gere described Trump as a “dark, dark presence.” The Pretty Woman star did not hold back when asked by a reporter whether he shared the concerns voiced by other Hollywood figures about the political direction of the United States.

“Of course,” Gere replied. “We have a president who’s not only crazy, he’s a dark, dark presence. And it’s happened so quickly. In just six months, he has almost destroyed our country.”

Gere, who relocated to Spain with his wife Alejandra Silva, used the opportunity to highlight what he sees as a rapid decline in both the tone and the moral compass of American politics. His words echoed comments he made earlier this year in February 2025, when he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at Spain’s Goya Awards, often referred to as the country’s Oscars.

Taking the stage in Seville, Gere reflected on the turbulent state of politics in the U.S. and beyond. “I’m coming from a place now that is very dark in America, where we have a bully and a thug who is president of the United States,” he said to the audience.

Presented the honor by his friend Antonio Banderas, the An Officer and a Gentleman star spoke with deep emotion about the importance of compassion and collective responsibility. He emphasized that people around the world are bound by shared hopes, pain, and dreams, but warned that a dangerous sense of tribalism is pulling societies apart.

“We have unfortunately elected officials who don’t inspire us in the way we want to be inspired,” Gere said, linking the political situation in the U.S. to a broader global problem. “It’s not just in the U.S. it’s everywhere. Authoritarianism takes over when people aren’t vigilant. We have to be alert, brave, and willing to stand up.”

He urged those listening to embrace honesty, kindness, and a renewed sense of humanity. “We have to be willing to stand up, tell the truth, and recognise that there’s a place in all our lives for basic love and understanding,” he continued.

Closing with a spiritual note, Gere encouraged meditation and reflection. “Maybe we can all do a little more listening to the universe,” he said, “so we can move in our hearts and minds to behave like true brothers and sisters on this planet.”