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Anne Hathaway, renowned for her Oscar-winning performances and beloved roles in films like The Devil Wears Prada and The Princess Diaries, has been making headlines lately—not for her acting chops, but for her outspoken political engagement. On October 14, 2024, Hathaway performed Queen’s iconic “Somebody to Love” at a Broadway fundraiser for Kamala Harris, continuing her streak of using her platform to advocate for social change and political action. But Hathaway’s support for political causes isn’t new; in fact, it’s been a consistent aspect of her career, earning her a reputation as one of Hollywood’s more politically active stars.
The broadway for Harris fundraiser: A full-circle moment
At the fundraiser in New York City, Hathaway was joined by Broadway icons such as Audra McDonald, Billy Porter, and Kristin Chenoweth, among others, to support the Kamala Harris- Tim Walz campaign as Election Day approaches on November 5, 2024. Hathaway’s impassioned rendition of “Somebody to Love” had the audience buzzing, not just because of her undeniable talent, but because of the timing and her role as a public figure in this pivotal election season.
Hathaway took the stage with a powerful message that resonated beyond the performance. “We got a big choice to make, America, you have to make a choice, you do have to vote,” she told the audience. “Maybe this election, maybe you don’t have a candidate that you love, but you have to have an issue that you, maybe the somebody you love is you. You gotta vote for yourself, America.” These words echo the actress’s long-standing commitment to advocacy, encouraging her audience to engage in the political process—even if they feel disconnected from the options presented.
Hathaway’s appearance at this fundraising event follows her history of championing various causes. Whether it’s her work with women’s rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy, or environmental concerns, Hathaway has consistently used her platform to push for progressive values. But her support for Kamala Harris, in particular, has been a strong and personal one. It’s clear that Hathaway sees Harris not just as a political figure but as someone who represents change and a hopeful vision for the future of the country.
Hathaway’s political inclinations: A history of advocacy
Anne Hathaway’s political inclinations have evolved and solidified over the years. She has never been shy about using her fame to shed light on issues important to her, from her support for equal pay to her vocal advocacy for women’s reproductive rights. During the 2016 election cycle, Hathaway was an outspoken supporter of Hillary Clinton, appearing at events and making her endorsement clear. Her political leanings have always leaned toward the progressive side of the spectrum, and she has not hesitated to call out injustice or advocate for marginalized groups.
She’s also an advocate for voting rights, a stance she reiterated at the Broadway for Harris event. Hathaway’s speech emphasized the importance of voting as a personal choice—encouraging people to vote for their own values, even when they might feel disillusioned with the available candidates. This marks a clear departure from the traditional celebrity endorsement, focusing more on the act of voting itself rather than championing a specific candidate or party.
Full circle: Revisiting iconic roles and the political stage
Interestingly, Hathaway’s political activism comes at a time when she’s also revisiting her most beloved roles. The actress recently declared that, in The Princess Diaries 3, which is being produced by her own production company, Somewhere Pictures, she will play Mia Thermopolis again.This announcement has fans eagerly anticipating the continuation of the beloved franchise, which has had its own cultural influence over the years.
Hathaway’s return to iconic roles is a reminder of her versatility as an actress and her ability to inspire audiences, whether it’s through her roles in film or through her activism. It’s clear that Hathaway’s engagement with politics and her advocacy for change are inseparable from her identity as a public figure. She’s not just using her voice on stage in a Broadway theater, but also on the national political stage, encouraging her audience to vote and make their voices heard.
Conclusion
Anne Hathaway’s performance at the Broadway for Harris fundraiser is more than just a musical number—it’s a reflection of her ongoing commitment to using her platform for political advocacy. From her work in promoting voter engagement to her consistent support of progressive causes, Hathaway is a reminder that celebrity influence can be a powerful force for positive change. As the U.S. heads toward another crucial election, Hathaway’s message is clear: vote for yourself—and make your voice count.