In recent days, the sudden death of Charlie Kirk – founder of Turning Point USA – has shaken American politics and society. His funeral, which was originally a memorial and condolence event for his family, became the center of controversy when many famous political figures and billionaires appeared, including former President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk.
According to many sources, instead of focusing on condolences, both Trump and Musk turned the memorial service into a place to make political statements, calling for support for their own views. It was this action that caused actress Gal Gadot – famous for her role as Wonder Woman – to publicly criticize.
In a strong statement on social media, Gadot said: “Funerals are a place of respect and reverence for the deceased and their families. To turn such a solemn ceremony into a political campaign is extremely disrespectful. I feel heartbroken for Erika Kirk and her loved ones who are suffering a great loss.”
The Israeli actress stressed that she understands the pain of a family when they lose a loved one and that witnessing the space of remembrance being distorted for political gain makes her unable to remain silent. “My sincerest condolences to Erika Kirk. No one deserves to see their husband’s death become a noisy political debate,” Gal Gadot added.
Gadot’s response quickly went viral, creating a wave of controversy on social media. Some of her supporters said that the actress’s assessment was completely correct. “Erika and her family need peace, prayers, not political slogans,” one Twitter comment read. Meanwhile, some people defended Trump and Musk, saying they just wanted to “honor” the values that Charlie Kirk pursued when he was alive.
It is worth noting that Gal Gadot does not often comment directly on US politics. Her speaking out at this sensitive time has attracted more public attention. Some newspapers even called it a “Hollywood shock” when a big star chose to publicly criticize powerful figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk.
From a personal perspective, I think Gal Gadot was right to emphasize the sacredness of a funeral. Although Charlie Kirk was a controversial political figure, the final moments of farewell still require respect and silence. Using the family’s pain to promote a political agenda – regardless of which side – is unacceptable.
Erika Kirk, Charlie’s wife, has yet to make an official comment on the matter. However, many sources close to her said she is extremely sad and tired of public pressure as well as unnecessary noise surrounding her husband’s funeral.
It can be said that this incident once again shows the fragile line between private life and politics in American society today. Funerals should be a place of commemoration, but they are easily dragged into the vortex of power calculations. And the voice of Gal Gadot – a person outside of American politics – has at least sounded the alarm bell for those who are forgetting the basic value of respect.
