Oscar-winning actor George Clooney had to withdraw from scheduled appearances at the Venice Film Festival this week, due to an illness. The 64-year-old star is in Italy to promote Jay Kelly, his highly anticipated new film receiving early awards buzz.
Clooney was seen leaving the Hotel Excelsior by boat around 4 p.m. local time, and a representative confirmed his sudden withdrawal. The publicist Simon Halls revealed that Clooney had been diagnosed with a sinus infection and was advised by doctors to limit his activities.
George has been diagnosed with a sinus infection and is under doctors orders to cut back on his activities today,
—Simon Halls, Publicist
Details on Clooney’s Film and Festival Participation
Jay Kelly, directed by Noah Baumbach and also starring Adam Sandler and Laura Dern, is set to premiere at the Venice Film Festival later in the week. Although Clooney missed several press events and a dinner with the film’s talent on Wednesday, there is potential for his return to the festival following recovery.
The film has attracted considerable attention for its ensemble cast, which includes multiple Oscar winners and nominees. Aside from Clooney and Dern, the project features direction from Baumbach and was co-written by Greta Gerwig, both of whom have earned four Oscar nominations each. Jim Broadbent, another Oscar winner, also appears in the film. Industry insiders have widely regarded Jay Kelly as a strong contender for the forthcoming awards season.
Plot Synopsis and Festival Lineup Highlights
Jay Kelly centers on an actor grappling with his public identity and fading fame while journeying through Europe accompanied by Ron, his friend and manager, played by Sandler. Together, they confront questions about legacy and the future amid the pressures of the entertainment industry.
Alongside Jay Kelly, the Venice Film Festival lineup includes other promising Oscar hopefuls such as Yorgos Lanthimos’ Bugonia, Benny Safdie’s The Smashing Machine, and Guillermo del Toro’s version of Frankenstein. Luca Guadagnino’s After the Hunt, starring Julia Roberts, is screening out of competition but is also regarded as a potential awards contender.
Clooney’s Off-Screen Controversy and Festival Context
Beyond his cinematic work, Clooney has been involved in notable political commentary in 2024. Earlier this year, he publicly urged his longtime friend, President Joe Biden, to withdraw from the presidential race against Donald Trump, a stance that attracted criticism.
This decision was met with backlash from various media figures, including The View cohost Joy Behar, who voiced opposition during the talk show. Hunter Biden, the president’s son, also criticized Clooney for the intervention.
Festival Schedule and Upcoming Film Release
The Venice Film Festival is ongoing and will conclude on September 6. Meanwhile, Jay Kelly is slated for a limited theatrical release on November 14, followed by streaming availability on Netflix starting December 5.
