Pharrell Faces Backlash As Public Reacts To Him Stating He ‘Doesn’t Do Politics’: ‘This Take Is So Privileged’
Pharrell Faces Backlash As Public Reacts To Him Stating He ‘Doesn’t Do Politics’: ‘This Take Is So Privileged’
Internet users are calling out Pharrell over his recent remarks about not engaging in politics.
The “Happy” singer is facing a wave of backlash online as social media commenters remind him about his history of being involved in political affairs.
Pharrell Williams, 51, gave his critical opinion of celebrities in politics during a recent interview. After being asked if he would allow the current presidential nominees to use his music as part of their campaigns, Pharrell stated:
“I don’t do politics. In fact, I get annoyed sometimes when I see celebrities trying to tell you [who to vote for].”
He continued:
“There are celebrities that I respect that have an opinion, but not all of them. I’m one of them people [who says], ‘What the heck? Shut up. Nobody asked you.’ When people get out there and get self-righteous and they roll up their sleeves and sh*t, and they are out there walking around with a placard: “Shut up!””
The 13x Grammy Award winner went on to state that he personally would rather “stay out of the way” when it comes to politics, insisting that he cares about “my people” and this country, though he acknowledged that he’s much more a fan of action than talk. As Pharrell’s commentary began circulating many internet users blasted him over the remarks, calling them “privileged” and further accusing him of straight-up lying.
Some referenced the musician’s choice to perform at a fundraiser for Israeli soldiers in 2018, which ultimately raised $60 million. At the time, Pharrell shared his grief and support for the IDF following a deadly shooting that happened at a synagogue in Pittsburg the week prior. He stated about the matter during his performance:
“Look, what happened in that synagogue was incredibly cruel, it was wrong, and it’s not supposed to be what our nation is…This group of people have been tested over and over and over again … but you guys show an incredible resilience.”
Other criticizers highlighted additional times when Pharrell involved himself in politics, pointing out his support for Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential run as well as his participation in Rock The Vote, an organization that promotes nationwide participation in elections.
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