At Golden Globes Parties, Meryl Streep’s Anti-Trump Speech Fuels Debate

In the dark recesses of the HBO post-Golden Globes party, a debate raged over whether it was appropriate for Meryl Streep to denounce Donald Trump during her acceptance speech on the telecast.

A studio chief joining the conversation agreed with him, wondering aloud if calling out Trump played into the hands of his supporters, who already accuse Hollywood of being out of touch.

[...] it’s always risky.

[...] in the current climate, Hollywood figures are understandably wary of the often vicious backlash that results from offering even a carefully woven political statement.

“Of course it’s appropriate for her to speak out at the Globes” about Trump, said Russell Simmons, the music producer, entrepreneur and political activist, who was there with Renée Elise Goldsberry of “Hamilton” fame.

Plenty of people said they admired Streep’s bravery, and I couldn’t find anyone who disagreed with the substance of her remarks, in which she said she was “heartbroken” at Trump’s mocking of a disabled reporter while campaigning in fall 2015.

With awards season upon us — meaning lots of moments at podiums available — and with the presidential inauguration just around the corner, many in Hollywood must have listened to Streep’s speech and wondered if they should follow suit and risk the backlash — or stick to the script, and regret missing an opportunity down the road.

Screen Actors Guild awards are looming, and so are lots of other televised ceremonies.