Outpouring of Grief: Political Figures & Celebrities Mourn Charlie Kirk — ‘He Was Loved and Admired’
Charlie Kirk’s horrific and untimely death has prompted an outpouring of grief from political figures, activists & celebrities as they mourn him. All corners of the political and cultural landscape are denouncing his death. Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. Charlie Kirk’s passing has sparked a nationwide conversation about violence in politics and the current heated state of the public’s conversations.
Politics Aside
Figures from both sides of the political aisle were quick to offer condolences and denounce the act. President Donald Trump, a longtime supporter of Kirk, shared a heartfelt message on Truth Social. “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead,” he wrote. “No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me.”
Democrats also joined in condemning the violence. Former President Barack Obama stated, “We don’t yet know what motivated the person who shot and killed Charlie Kirk, but this kind of despicable violence has no place in our democracy.” California Governor Gavin Newsom described the attack as “disgusting, vile, and reprehensible,” adding, “In the United States of America, we must reject political violence in EVERY form.” Similar messages of unity came from Vice President Kamala Harris, former President Joe Biden, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, all of whom stressed that political differences should never be settled with violence.
Celebrities & Public Figures Talk
The grief extended beyond the political arena into Hollywood and the entertainment industry. Celebrities and public figures expressed their sorrow and called for a moment of national reflection. Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel posted on Instagram, “Instead of the angry finger-pointing, can we just for one day agree that it is horrible and monstrous to shoot another human?”
Actor Chris Pratt shared a prayer on X, formerly known as Twitter, for Kirk’s family and the country. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the actor and former California governor, offered a poignant message. “Politics has become a disease in this country, and it’s deadly,” he wrote. “We must find our better angels and walk back from the extremes. If we can’t agree on anything else, we must find agreement that we don’t solve our debates with violence.”
What Happened?
Charlie Kirk was known for his campus tours, where he engaged students in debates on contentious issues. He founded Turning Point USA to motivate and organize young conservatives, building a significant following. Supporters remembered him as a courageous voice who was not afraid to engage with those who disagreed with him. Makenna Blackman, a communications director for the San Diego Young Republicans, expressed her shock, calling the news “horrific.”
The shooting occurred while Kirk was on stage addressing a crowd of approximately 3,000 people. The incident has prompted an active homicide investigation and a manhunt for the suspected shooter. The FBI has recovered a bolt-action rifle from Kirk’s killing and is currently offering a reward for the arrest of those responsible for Kirk’s death. Utah Valley University has closed its campus until September 15.
What’s Next?
As Americans from all political backgrounds try to process the death of Kirk, voices across the nation are calling for greater civility and unity. Charlie Kirk’s death is a stark warning about the real and personal costs of deepening political divides. He is survived by his wife, Erika, and their two young children. People from all backgrounds and parties, including political figures and celebrities, are expressing that violence must never replace discussion. The heart of a healthy democracy comes from respectful dialogue.
