George Clooney defends Hollywood actors after Quentin Tarantino criticized several industry peers during recent public appearances, with tensions escalating between the two high-profile figures. At the AARP Movies for Grownups Awards in Hollywood, Clooney responded to Tarantino’s sharp remarks, affirming his support for those targeted by the director’s comments.
Clooney Praises Actors Amid Awards Recognition
During the ceremony on January 10, where Clooney was awarded best actor for his role in Jay Kelly, he paid tribute to fellow actors Paul Dano, Matthew Lillard, and Owen Wilson, who have faced negative criticism from Tarantino. In his speech, Clooney stated,
“By the way, Paul Dano and Owen Wilson and Matthew Lillard, I would be honored to work with those actors. Honored,”
—George Clooney, Actor. Clooney made it clear he values collaboration with his peers and rejects the recent disparaging remarks directed at them.
He further reflected on the industry culture behind his latest film, emphasizing,
“made by people who love actors — that’s an important part. People I’ve known most of my life… actually, most of them are actors. I have a great affinity [for them], and I don’t enjoy watching people be cruel.”
—George Clooney, Actor. This sentiment signals Clooney’s deep connection to the acting community, highlighting a spirit of camaraderie even during contentious times.
Tarantino’s Public Criticism of Hollywood Actors
The controversy traces back to December 2025, when Quentin Tarantino, during an episode of The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast, openly criticized Paul Dano and others. The Kill Bill filmmaker labeled Dano “weak sauce” and said,
“He’s just such a weak, weak, uninteresting guy.”
—Quentin Tarantino, Director. Tarantino escalated his remarks by calling Dano
“the weakest f***ing actor in SAG.”
—Quentin Tarantino, Director. He also stated his strong dislike for Owen Wilson and showed disregard for Matthew Lillard, despite previously naming Wilson’s film Midnight in Paris as a personal favorite.
Matthew Lillard responded to these comments at GalaxyCon in Columbus, Ohio, sharing his candid feelings about being targeted.
“Quentin Tarantino this week said he didn’t like me as an actor. Eh, whatever. Who gives a s***,”
—Matthew Lillard, Actor. Lillard admitted the criticism was painful, adding,
“It hurts your feelings. It f***ing sucks. And you wouldn’t say that to Tom Cruise. You wouldn’t say that to somebody who’s a top-line actor in Hollywood.”
—Matthew Lillard, Actor.
Ongoing Feud: Past Tensions Between Clooney and Tarantino
The rift between Clooney and Tarantino did not emerge overnight; past interactions show recurring friction. In July 2023, Tarantino dismissed Clooney’s box office appeal compared to contemporaries like Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie, telling Deadline,
“It’s been a long while since I think George Clooney has drawn anybody to an audience. When was the last time that he had a hit in this millennium?”
—Quentin Tarantino, Director. Such remarks fueled the already strained relationship between the two Hollywood figures.
Clooney, in an August 2024 GQ interview, admitted that Tarantino’s remarks had a personal impact.
“Quentin said some s*** about me recently, so I’m a little irritated by him,”
—George Clooney, Actor. He elaborated on how Tarantino’s dismissal of his career felt unjust, sharing,
“He did some interview where he was naming movie stars, and he was talking about [Brad Pitt], and somebody else, and then this guy goes, ‘Well, what about George?’ He goes, ‘He’s not a movie star.’ And then he literally said something like, ‘Name me a movie since the millennium.’ And I was like, ‘Since the millennium? That’s kind of my whole f***ing career.’”
—George Clooney, Actor. Clooney made clear his willingness to respond in kind:
“So now I’m like, all right, dude, f*** off. I don’t mind giving him s***. He gave me s***.”
—George Clooney, Actor.
Reflection on Impact and Industry Dialogue
The high-profile feud between Clooney and Tarantino underscores shifting attitudes within the entertainment industry regarding public criticism and support among artists. As major names like Paul Dano, Matthew Lillard, and Owen Wilson are drawn into the conversation, the situation has sparked significant discussion about respect and solidarity in Hollywood. Clooney’s public defense and willingness to work with his peers contrasts sharply with Tarantino’s critical stance, raising questions about the role of constructive feedback and the impact of public comments on the careers and reputations of actors.
The ongoing debate may influence how industry figures communicate grievances or offer praise going forward, potentially fostering a greater sense of respect or, conversely, deepening personal rivalries. With fans and professionals alike watching these developments, the dialogue between Clooney, Tarantino, and their colleagues highlights the pressures and vulnerabilities faced by those in the spotlight.
