Mark Ruffalo Leads Golden Globes Protest Against ICE Policies

The 83rd Golden Globe Awards, held on January 11, 2026, at the Beverly Hilton, transformed into a platform for political protest, with many attendees voicing their concerns regarding US immigration policies. Among the most prominent figures was actor Mark Ruffalo, who used the event to highlight issues surrounding US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the recent shooting of Renee Nicole Good.

Ruffalo donned a white suit adorned with a ‘BE GOOD’ pin, which he said was a tribute to Good, who was fatally shot in Minneapolis just a week prior. In a brief interview with USA Today, he stated, “This is for Renee Nicole Good, who was murdered,” framing his presence at the awards not just as a celebration of film but as a call for justice.

He did not shy away from criticizing the administration, stating, “We have a vice president who’s lying about what’s happening. We’re in the middle of a war with Venezuela that we illegally invaded.” He further condemned former President Donald Trump, referring to him as a “convicted felon” and “the worst human being,” while asserting, “If the United States is relying on Trump’s morality to guide ‘the most powerful country in the world,’ then we’re all in a lot of trouble.”

Ruffalo’s comments echoed concerns around Trump’s legal issues, including a conviction in May 2024 for 34 counts of felony charges related to falsified business records and a civil judgment against him for sexual abuse of E Jean Carroll in 1996, where a jury awarded her £3.7 million ($5 million) in damages. It is important to note that these cases did not include criminal convictions for sex crimes involving children or minors.

Celebrity Solidarity at the Golden Globes

Ruffalo was not alone in his silent protest; other celebrities joined him in wearing pins that promoted the message of rejecting ICE policies. Singer Ariana Grande chose to complement her evening gown with an ‘ICE OUT’ pin, while comedian Wanda Sykes wore a ‘BE GOOD’ pin and expressed her views to Variety. Sykes remarked, “We need to speak up and shut this rogue government down. It’s awful what they are doing to people.”

Actors Natasha Lyonne and Jean Smart also sported the activist pins, demonstrating a united front among Hollywood figures against current immigration policies. The use of the red carpet for such a significant message marks a notable shift in the role of celebrity activism within entertainment events.

As the evening unfolded, the protest highlighted a growing concern among artists regarding the treatment of immigrants and the accountability of political leaders. Ruffalo’s passionate address encapsulated the sentiment shared by many in attendance, portraying the Golden Globes not just as an awards ceremony, but as a crucial moment for advocacy and social justice.

The event showcased the power of the entertainment industry to influence public discourse, reminding viewers that the fight for justice and truth continues beyond the silver screen.