Entertainment

Glenn Close Speaks Out on J.D. Vance's Surprising Political Transformation

2025-01-08

Author: Olivia

In a recent appearance on *The View*, acclaimed actress Glenn Close expressed her bewilderment over J.D. Vance's dramatic political shift since the release of *Hillbilly Elegy*, the Netflix film in which she portrayed his grandmother, Mamaw. The discussion, prompted by panelist Joy Behar, took place while promoting Close's new movie, *Back in Action*.

"I recall him coming to the set and being very supportive," Close said, reflecting on Vance's visit during the film's production. She remembered how he assisted young actor Owen Asztalos, who played a younger version of Vance. Close highlighted the collaborative effort of the cast, which also included Amy Adams and Freida Pinto, in preparing for their roles by meeting Vance's family members.

The actress delved into the nuances of her character, sharing insights into how she researched Mamaw's personality and habits. Close's dedication involved studying family dynamics and mannerisms, allowing her to authentically portray the complexities of Vance's upbringing.

On the subject of Vance's current ultra-conservative stance, particularly as he joins Donald Trump’s campaign for the 2024 presidential election, Close said, "I don’t know what happened," earning a chuckle from the audience. Behar cleverly compared Vance's transformation to the plot of *Invasion of the Body Snatchers*, suggesting that many people undergo a radical change in character when pursuing power. Close agreed, nodding to the seductive nature of power in politics.

Close’s reflection on Vance is layered with irony, especially considering her previous criticism of his remarks regarding left-leaning politicians, which she described as "childless cat ladies." In a spirited Instagram post, she humorously defended cat owners everywhere, highlighting the absurdity of such statements.

This conversation not only sheds light on the complexities of political identity but also showcases Close's commitment to her craft and the insights gained from portraying real-life figures. As the political landscape continues to shift, fans are left wondering how these transformations affect the representation of personal stories on screen.