Jane Fonda, 87, stole the spotlight at the SAG Life Achievement Award ceremony. The legendary actress and activist delivered a fiery speech that attacked Donald Trump without naming him directly. Her words were sharp, passionate, and filled with urgency. She called for resistance, unity, and action. The Hollywood star made it clear—she isn’t done fighting.
A history of protest
Fonda has a long history of activism. She earned the nickname ‘Hanoi Jane’ for opposing the Vietnam War. Throughout her career, she has championed liberal causes and stood up against injustice. On Sunday night, she returned to the stage with another powerful message. Her speech was not just about Hollywood—it was about the state of the country. She linked the present moment to past struggles and called on everyone to take a stand.
A call to action
Fonda urged Hollywood to resist the Trump administration. She compared the current political climate to historic struggles like Stonewall and Selma. She reminded the audience that history is watching. ‘This is it. And it’s not a rehearsal,’ she declared. Her message was clear: the time to act is now. The fight for justice, equality, and democracy cannot wait.
Defending wokeness
She defended ‘wokeness’ against criticism, stating, ‘Woke just means you give a damn about other people.’ She emphasized that empathy is not a weakness but a strength. She dismissed those who mock compassion and social awareness. Fonda made it clear that standing up for others is not political theater—it is a moral duty. Her words resonated with the audience, sparking applause and support.
Trump as a ‘traumatized person’
Fonda stopped short of saying Trump’s name. However, she referred to actors portraying bullies and the experiences that shape them. She praised Sebastian Stan for his role as young Trump in The Apprentice, implying that Trump is a deeply ‘traumatized person.’ Her comments hinted at a man shaped by pain and insecurity. She suggested that understanding this was key to confronting his influence and the harm he causes.
Reaching out to Trump voters
She called for unity, even among political opponents. ‘A whole lot of people are gonna be really hurt by what’s coming our way,‘ she warned. She encouraged liberals to reach out to Trump supporters, suggesting they would suffer too. She stressed the need for empathy and understanding. Instead of division, she urged people to build bridges. ‘We are gonna need a big tent to resist what’s coming at us,’ she declared.
Hollywood must resist
Fonda reminded the audience of Hollywood’s past resistance to McCarthyism. She demanded that the industry stand strong again. She recalled how actors and filmmakers once defied political persecution. She urged her peers to take inspiration from that history. ‘We must stay in community. We must project an inspiring message of the future,’ she urged. The message was not just for Hollywood—it was for anyone who believes in justice.
A lifetime of achievements
Julia Louis-Dreyfus introduced Fonda, celebrating her as a fierce advocate. Fonda reflected on her unique career and the unexpected turns it has taken. ‘I retired for 15 years and came back at 65,’ she said. ‘In my 90s, I’ll probably be doing my own stunts in an action movie.’ Her words carried humor, but also determination. She has never followed a traditional path. Her legacy is still unfolding, and she has no plans of stopping.
Not done yet
Receiving the award from her union, Fonda expressed gratitude. ‘This means the world to me. Thank you, SAG-AFTRA. Your enthusiasm makes this seem less like a late twilight and more like a go-girl, kick-ass moment. I’m not done.’ The crowd erupted in applause. Fonda’s energy and passion remain as strong as ever. She left no doubt—her fight continues.
Campaigning for change
Fonda remains politically active. Recently, she campaigned for Kamala Harris in Michigan. However, not everyone welcomes her activism. Many still criticize her for her stance on the Vietnam War. Her activism has always been controversial, but she has never backed down. She believes in using her voice, no matter the backlash. Her commitment to justice has never wavered.
The ‘Hanoi Jane’ controversy
In 1972, Fonda visited North Vietnam. A photo of her sitting on an anti-aircraft gun sparked outrage. She later admitted she didn’t grasp the implications at the time. ‘It was my mistake, and I have paid a heavy price for it,’ she wrote in her 2005 memoir. The controversy has followed her for decades. Even now, some refuse to forgive her. But she stands by her belief in peace and accountability.
Red carpet concerns
Before the ceremony, an awkward interview raised concerns. Fonda struggled to answer questions from Lilly Singh. Viewers noticed her appearing disoriented. Social media erupted with speculation about her well-being. Some worried about her health, while others dismissed it as nerves. Regardless, her speech proved she is still sharp, passionate, and ready to fight.
Many viewers found the exchange uncomfortable. ‘Is Jane Fonda okay?’ one person tweeted. Others noted she seemed ‘slow’ and ‘dazed.’ Despite the red carpet moment, Fonda delivered one of the night’s most powerful speeches. Her energy on stage reassured many fans. Whatever happened earlier in the night, she brought her full force to her message.
A legacy of activism
Fonda’s SAG speech reinforced her legacy. She urged unity, empathy, and resistance. She reminded Hollywood of its power to fight injustice. At 87, she remains a formidable voice. Her passion for activism continues to inspire. Whether on screen or in the streets, Jane Fonda is far from done.
