'One has to go': Chris Pratt - The controversial Chris embroiled in unwarranted political speculation"
In 2020, the Avengers assembled for a Joe Biden fundraiser, sparking a controversy surrounding the absence of actor Chris Pratt. The actor's non-participation led to speculation on Twitter about his political leanings, with many accusing him of supporting President Donald Trump. However, Pratt, known for keeping his political beliefs private, remained silent amidst the accusations. Despite the controversy, the fundraiser proceeded with other Avengers cast members and Senator Kamala Harris.
Updated : October 20, 2023 05:24 PM ISTIn 2020, the Avengers assembled for a Joe Biden fundraiser, sparking a controversy surrounding the absence of actor Chris Pratt. The actor's non-participation led to speculation on Twitter about his political leanings, with many accusing him of supporting President Donald Trump. However, Pratt, known for keeping his political beliefs private, remained silent amidst the accusations. Despite the controversy, the fundraiser proceeded with other Avengers cast members and Senator Kamala Harris.
In a notable moment of the 2020 political sphere, the Avengers assembled not just for justice, but for a cause that ventured into the real world – a fundraiser for Joe Biden's presidential campaign. However, the absence of one star, Chris Pratt, known for his iconic role as Star-Lord in "Guardians of the Galaxy" and Andy Dwyer in "Parks and Rec", stirred a storm on Twitter. The actor faced a barrage of criticism, as his non-appearance fueled rumors of his purported support for President Donald Trump.
Pratt's political affiliation became a topic of heated debate when he was left out of a light-hearted Twitter meme by screenwriter Amy Berg that read, "One has to go", featuring four prominent actors named Chris. Fans began to associate Pratt's absence from the Biden event and his affiliation with a conservative church as indicators of his alleged support for Trump.
However, Robert Downey Jr., another Avenger who opted out of the Biden event, did not receive the same scrutiny. Pratt's political views have always been private. It's worth noting that in 2012, according to Newsweek, he donated to President Barack Obama's campaign, and his wife, Katherine Schwarzenegger, openly supported Biden. Yet, these facts did little to quell the wave of criticism Pratt faced.
Pratt was silent throughout the controversy, but he was defended by some, including Brandon Morse, who admired his difference and the respect it elicited.
While shying away from politics, Pratt has openly embraced his Christian faith. Despite previous accusations of attending a church discriminatory towards the LGBTQ+ community, Pratt reaffirmed his commitment to a church that welcomes everyone.
The Avengers virtual fundraiser, sans Pratt, included Avengers' cast members and Biden's running mate, Sen. Kamala Harris, in a Q&A session and Avengers trivia.