‘Friends’ Boss Marta Kauffman on Helping Raise $500,000 for Kamala Harris and Jennifer Aniston’s ‘Brave’ Move to Slam JD Vance: ‘It Wasn’t Easy for Her’

As a cinephile who has lived through the highs and lows of Hollywood politics, I can confidently say that Marta Kauffman’s decision to join Cooking for Kamala is not just about good food and great company. It’s about standing up for what truly matters. Having witnessed the shocking turn of events in 2016 when Hillary Clinton lost to Donald Trump, I understand the importance of staying vigilant and active during this election season.

Marta Kauffman swiftly agreed to participate as a co-host for Cooking for Kamala, a charitable event where Vice President Kamala Harris is the guest of honor. The event, happening on September 14 in Los Angeles, offers a special dining experience prepared by renowned chef Nancy Silverton. Additionally, Senator Mark Kelly from Arizona will be attending this occasion.

My next-door neighbor, Nancy, might have been the one who first extended an invitation to me, as the ‘Friends’ and ‘Grace and Frankie’ co-creator explains. She simply inquired, ‘Would you join me in this?’, and I responded positively without a moment’s hesitation.

Although Kauffman is hopeful that Harris will claim the White House, she remains vigilant, having witnessed Hillary Clinton’s defeat by Donald Trump in 2016.

Looking back, Kauffman admits that he grew overconfident, thinking, ‘Well, the surveys show Clinton is leading.’ However, he realized that the race was going to be close. It was time for us to pull out all the stops – sending letters, visiting homes, making calls, whatever we could manage. If you couldn’t go door-to-door, then use the phone. There are numerous ways to participate and contribute to this cause, feeling a sense of belonging in this movement.

What was it like watching the debate on Tuesday night?

1) I observed it by myself, feeling both fearful and then elated as time went on, followed by texting. She stands out as the superior candidate. In my opinion, she demonstrated this during the debate. She touched upon critical issues effectively. She successfully challenged him on reproductive rights. It’s baffling to me how some women trust Trump when he portrays himself as a moderate, but personally, I believe he harbors a deep disdain for women. He yearns for power over women and refused to commit to vetoing a national ban. Moreover, he carefully selected three Supreme Court justices who carried out his wishes exactly as planned. And if you delve into Project 2025, the situation becomes even more concerning.

Have you read Project 2025?

Only certain sections, not the entirety. It’s excessively lengthy and could potentially lead to feelings of sadness. Reading “The Goldfinch” might seem like a more pleasant experience in comparison. The recurring thought that came to mind was, “Oh, my goodness, they’re trying to force us into ‘The Handmaid’s Tale.’ ” Initially, when I read the book, I considered it a work of dystopian fiction, but I never imagined it would have any relevance to real-life events. It never crossed my mind that it could serve as a prediction for what was to come.

How were you feeling before Biden stepped out of the race?

After the initial debate, I became quite anxious. I immediately phoned my children and expressed my concerns, saying, “It seems he may have cost us the election.” I was filled with dread.

How does the outcome of the election affect Hollywood?

As a dedicated cinephile, I cannot overlook the significant distinction that sets apart the candidates, and it’s not just about the nation, but it does impact Hollywood – union backing. Donald Trump has shown no allegiance towards unions, which is why organizations like UAW are backing his opponent. This issue is crucial to us creatives – writers, directors, producers, actors, and even crew members like Teamsters – because we all need a fair income to make ends meet.

Would you not shoot a project in a state with strict abortion laws?

Right now, I would absolutely not go to one of those states.

Do you think Hollywood support for a candidate can affect voting?

The truth is, if we get a few people to vote, if we get a few people to change their minds or think differently about the election, there’s a lot of us in Hollywood who can do that. We can have an effect, especially if you have a big name.

What did you think when you read Taylor Swift’s Instagram endorsing Harris?

It occurred to me with relief, “Thank goodness.” Moreover, it seems like Jennifer Aniston’s voice has been enlightening many people.

Aniston blasted GOP vice presidential candidate JD Vance in an Instagram post in July for his “childless cat ladies” comments. Were you surprised Jennifer spoke out publicly?

It’s clear that the subject found it challenging to discuss this matter, given its sensitive nature and her unique lifestyle as a cat owner without children. I acknowledge that it wasn’t effortless for her to reveal her struggles. However, her courage in doing so was truly commendable, and I believe it made a significant impact, particularly on that aspect of the discussion.

When are you hosting a “Friends” for Kamala Zoom call?

[Laughs] That’s really funny.

We’ve seen “West Wing” and “Will and Grace” reunions during elections. Why not “Friends?”

We couldn’t get all of them to do it. Some of them like to stay out of politics.

Which “Friends” character would be the biggest Kamala supporter?

Ross. He’s so passionate about the world. He’s the one who would get very involved. Monica, too.

She’d have a lot of anxiety over the election.

Probably. I think Phoebe would get lost in some conspiracy theory.

And support Robert F. Kennedy Jr.?!

I don’t think she’d vote for Trump but she’d believe in some crazy conspiracy theories.

When will you create a political sitcom?

We’re actually talking about it. We have a few things bubbling up.

Give us a tease.

I can’t… Okay, it’s about a former president in jail.

Really?

No! [Laughs]

What are your plans for election night?

In 2016, I hosted some friends at my place. As the situation unfolded, I found myself unable to continue watching and so I asked everyone to leave. I ended up going to bed instead. I’m still undecided whether I want to watch it with others this year or not.

2024-09-13 23:47