Kristin Chenoweth has addressed the criticism she faced after paying tribute to Charlie Kirk. The Broadway star spoke out following the death of the right-wing political activist, who was fatally shot on 10 September. In the immediate aftermath, Chenoweth took to Instagram, writing: “I’m. So. Upset. Didn’t always agree but appreciated some perspectives. What a heartbreak. His young family. I know where he is now. Heaven. But still.”
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In an interview with NY1’s Frank DiLella, Chenoweth acknowledged that her post had met with strong reactions. The host described the response as “mixed,” to which the 57-year-old actress replied, “Mixed? You’re being kind.” DiLella noted that Chenoweth has a large LGBTQ+ following, while Kirk had openly opposed same-sex marriage and trans rights.
Asked about the intention behind her tribute, Chenoweth admitted she had acted from an emotional place. “Oh, goodness, I’m sorry if emotion gets involved here, forgive me. I saw what happened online with my own eyes and I had a human moment of reflection right then,” she said, tears welling in her eyes. She also stated that she understood some of her fans had been hurt by her comment.
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Chenoweth stressed that her faith and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights are both central to who she is. “I came to understand that my comment hurt some folks and that hurt me so badly. I would never. It’s no secret that I’m a Christian, that I’m a person of faith,” she said. “It’s also no secret that I am an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and for some, that doesn’t go together. But for me, it always has and it always will.” Kirk was 31 at the time of his death, having been shot while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University.
