Hollywood’s Election Night Shift: Anxiety, Action, and Last-Minute Voter Mobilization Replace Big Celebrations
As Election Day 2024 approached, the atmosphere in Hollywood was tense. Unlike the festive gatherings of the past, this year saw fewer grand celebrations and more intimate gatherings marked by a sense of caution and apprehension. High-profile industry insiders, typically eager for lavish Election Night parties, found themselves preparing for a more reserved evening of reflection, camaraderie, and action-oriented last-minute voter mobilization.
In Hollywood, Election Night has historically been a time for star-studded celebrations. However, recent elections, coupled with uncertainties surrounding mail-in voting and delayed results, have changed this tradition significantly. Hollywood now takes a new approach—marked by cautious optimism, subdued gatherings, and purposeful involvement in final voter outreach.
Election Night Anxiety in Hollywood: A New Tradition
For many in the entertainment industry, Election Night has transformed. Jamie Patricof, a seasoned producer and political activist, encapsulates this shift. Reflecting on the last few election cycles, Patricof noted, “The biggest change for me personally is the understanding that we most likely will not have a confirmed outcome by the end of election night.” The sentiment is common in Hollywood; uncertainty about Election Night outcomes and a past marred by surprising losses have tempered the celebratory vibe.
While many industry insiders had previously toasted victory by night’s end, the last few election cycles taught them to expect the unexpected. Uncertainty around the final count, due to mail-in ballots and tight races, has prompted many to adjust their plans.
Avoiding Large Gatherings – A Lesson from 2016
For some, the trauma of the 2016 election still lingers. Hollywood insiders recall how that year’s Election Night started with hope, only for results to deliver unexpected and lasting shock. One industry professional recounts the night at New York’s Javits Center, where the celebration turned somber as Donald Trump emerged victorious. “The experience is seared into my memory,” they shared, noting how the good vibes vanished, leaving the room in silence and disbelief.
Since then, Hollywood’s Election Night plans have shifted towards smaller, private gatherings. The hope is to create spaces for reflection and solace, as opposed to the jubilant celebrations of years past.
Subdued, Intimate Gatherings Over Champagne and Toasts
This year, Election Night plans reflect caution and introspection. Many have opted for modest, comforting gatherings at home. Kelli McNeil-Yellen, a writer and producer, and her husband, Alexander Yellen, plan to cook Julia Child’s boeuf bourguignon—a meal that provides both distraction and comfort. “We’re going to need some comfort food, and we can’t think of anything that sticks to your ribs better than an OG Julia Child recipe,” McNeil-Yellen said.
Others have decided to avoid the suspense altogether. One Hollywood communications executive plans to play poker as a distraction, while a veteran manager prepares for a night of pizza and cable news at home. Though these gatherings lack the glitz and glam of previous years, they serve as safe, intimate spaces for those still apprehensive about the election’s potential outcome.
Hollywood’s Activism Pushes On – No Time for Celebration
The close race between President Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris has left many Hollywood insiders forgoing even modest Election Night plans in favor of continued voter mobilization efforts. Patricof, for instance, joined forces with Congressman Eric Swalwell to organize “Everyone for Kamala,” a virtual phone-banking event streamed on the interactive platform Hovercast. Celebrities including John Legend, Jessica Alba, Ben Stiller, and Kerry Washington participated, inspiring viewers to join phone-banking sessions aimed at getting out the vote.
Similarly, “Stars in the House” hosts Seth Rudetsky and James Wesley Jackson have partnered with Broadway Votes and Joy to the Polls to organize their Election Day Vote-A-Thon. Set up as a six-hour livestream, the event featured performances by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Jonathan Groff, Rosie Perez, Wayne Brady, and a lineup of Broadway stars, in partnership with the Entertainment Community Fund, raising awareness for voter turnout and providing support to those anxious about the election.
Hollywood’s Cautious Optimism for Election Night 2024
Despite the uncertainty and subdued vibe, Hollywood insiders maintain cautious optimism. Many industry professionals have voiced their determination to participate in America’s democratic process, regardless of the final Election Day outcome. For some, this Election Night serves as a time to rally together in solidarity, ensuring that their voices and the voices of their communities are heard.
Patricof describes Election Night as his “Super Bowl,” one that will find him glued to pundit analysis on multiple screens, hoping for positive outcomes. Yet, for him and others, the focus remains on using their influence to support candidates they believe in rather than reveling in the electoral excitement of years past.
Hollywood’s pivot to small gatherings, somber introspection, and grassroots activism reflects a new trend. The city’s biggest stars remain committed to democracy, knowing that every phone call, donation, and late-night rally contributes to the collective effort. And while Election Night celebrations may look different now, Hollywood’s role in motivating civic participation remains unwavering.
