In a surprising move this past July, George Clooney called on President Joe Biden to step aside from the presidential race, suggesting concerns about his capacity. The actor and director, known for his strong Democratic support, felt compelled to speak out.
“I was brought up to speak the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable,” Clooney explained. “I did what I was taught to do.” His comments inevitably sparked controversy, similar to when he criticized the Iraq invasion years ago, but Clooney remained steadfast.
“Speaking truth to power, or taking risks like this, is something we’ve witnessed throughout history,” he remarked. “We’ve been here before and overcome it.” This spring, Clooney extends his commitment to speaking truth to power by debuting on Broadway, portraying the iconic journalist Edward R. Murrow in a stage adaptation of his 2005 film, “Good Night, and Good Luck,” with performances beginning March 12.
Murrow, an essential figure in the foundation of U.S. broadcast journalism, is particularly remembered for opposing Senator Joe McCarthy, who stirred up fear of a communist menace in the 1950s. “This story reflects our best selves—when we hold ourselves accountable,” Clooney noted. “What’s concerning today, unlike Murrow’s era, is that truth seems negotiable.”
Clooney co-wrote the original film with Grant Heslov, with David Strathairn as Murrow and Clooney as CBS executive Fred Friendly. In the play, Clooney steps into the shoes of Murrow. When investors demanded that Clooney remain in the lead role, it sealed the deal for the play’s production. It will feature actual footage of McCarthy and recreate a newsroom environment with vintage monitors.
Transitioning to Broadway is a logical step, as many noted the film’s theatrical qualities. Initially envisioned as a live TV film, the idea was shelved after the infamous 2004 Super Bowl incident involving Janet Jackson, which stifled live network events. “It is an exceptionally literary piece,” said director David Cromer, highlighting the nuanced debates within the play.
At a time when journalists face challenges from the administration and access issues, Clooney’s return to Murrow feels relevant. “We didn’t decide to do the play for political reasons initially,” mentioned Heslov, who is also joining Broadway. “But it seems timely now.”
Clooney’s journalistic values stem from his father, Nick Clooney, an esteemed journalist who worked across multiple cities, penned a newspaper column, and taught journalism. “I’m the son of a real journalist, someone dedicated to truth,” said Clooney. “This is what I believe in.”
He joins a star-studded lineup on Broadway this season, including Denzel Washington, Jake Gyllenhaal, and others. Clooney humbly requested not to be the highest-paid actor on Broadway, reminiscent of when he financed the film “Good Night, and Good Luck,” by mortgaging his home and taking a minimal salary.
“My viewpoint is, pay established actors like Patti LuPone the most. It’s unfair for someone new to Broadway, like me, to take the highest salary,” he insisted. Despite high ticket demand at the Winter Garden, Clooney attributes the draw to Murrow’s legacy, not his presence. “Murrow’s words offer comfort amidst chaos. People are excited to engage in such discussions,” he described.
Despite his success, Clooney had assumed Broadway might no longer be within reach, considering the family adjustments involved. Now 63, he embraced the opportunity with self-awareness.
“I’ve done well in my career, but Broadway was a dream I thought might elude me,” he reflected. “Although offered roles before, they didn’t fit. This felt right, a chance to tell a story I understood. While I might falter, I know what this demands.”
