Actress Natalie Portman sharply criticized the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement policies, calling them
the worst of the worst of humanity.
Her remarks came amid escalating tensions following several fatal incidents involving immigration authorities across the United States.
The recent death of Alex Pretti, 37, shot by a Border Patrol officer in Minneapolis on January 24, marks at least the sixth fatality linked to the federal crackdown on immigration during the Trump era. Portman’s comments at the Sundance Film Festival highlighted her deep concern about the government’s approach, which she described as
absolutely horrific
and emblematic of a grave humanitarian crisis.
Multiple Deaths Spark Outrage Over Immigration Enforcement Tactics
Federal officials have portrayed Pretti, a U.S. citizen, as an armed threat to agents, but video footage disputes this narrative, showing him holding only a phone moments before the shooting amid a scuffle with Border Patrol officers. This incident follows weeks after Renee Good, another U.S. citizen, was shot multiple times by ICE officer Jonathan Ross while attempting to drive away during an encounter, an act the administration defends as self-defense.
Such incidents have fueled widespread criticism from both the public and celebrities. John Slattery, known for his role in Mad Men, expressed dismay over the aggressive tactics, questioning the use of masks by ICE agents in immigration operations.
We’re citizens of this country and I look around at what’s happening, and I’m mortified,
he said, adding,
I still don’t understand why – So, ICE exists, but why do these guys wear masks? Is it such an odious job? Is it so embarrassing and so shameful that these supposed police – this police force, this border patrol – they wear masks to work?
Celebrity Voices Unite in Protest Against Immigration Policies
Many entertainers have used their platforms to condemn these deaths and the immigration crackdown more broadly. Amy Poehler paid tribute to Minneapolis communities on her podcast, emphasizing mutual support despite the harsh events.
The intention of ‘Good Hang’ has always been to bring levity and joy and laughs in these tough times, and we’re going to keep doing that. But before we start this episode, I just want to send much love to the best people in the world, also known as Minnesotans. What we are all witnessing is terrifying and enraging and illegal. But we are also seeing neighbors helping neighbors. And if you want to help, there is a directory of local organizations and mutual aid groups that you can check out at standwithmininnesota.com. Minnesota, you’re in our hearts.
Similarly, Bella Hadid demanded the abolition of ICE in a forceful Instagram post, condemning the agency’s aggressive methods as
outrageous, dangerous, horror movie-like-behavior,
and describing the situation as a monstrosity. Actor Mark Ruffalo labeled the killing of Pretti as
cold-blooded murder in the streets of the USA by an occupying military gang, creating havoc. We have fought wars in other countries for less than this,
underscoring the severity of the situation.
Growing Calls to End ICE Operations Spark Public Outcry
Well-known figures such as Glenn Close and Jamie Lee Curtis have also expressed outrage. Close referenced the cruelty and inhumanity under the Trump regime, calling it
cold-blooded murder of American citizens,
while Curtis urged for louder resistance against ICE, declaring,
Let the ICE STORM of RESISTANCE RING LOUDLY,
and lamenting that
THESE WERE AMERICANS! SHOT BY OUR GOVERNMENT,
referring to the recent deaths.
Cynthia Nixon called the Pretti shooting a cold-blooded execution and accused Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem of spreading
morally reprehensible, disgusting lies
about the incident. These statements reflect a rising chorus of denunciation towards federal immigration enforcement practices.
Federal Investigations Underway After Minneapolis Shooting
The White House has confirmed that at least three investigations into the shooting of Alex Pretti are ongoing. During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt explained that the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI are probing the incident, while U.S. Customs and Border Protection is conducting an internal review.
This scrutiny follows public outrage and intensified scrutiny over the role and conduct of immigration agencies. The efforts to examine the fatal encounter with Pretti indicate a recognition of the serious questions raised by communities, advocacy groups, and public figures alike.
National Dialogue Highlights Deep Divisions and Urgency for Reform
The increasing number of deaths connected to immigration enforcement has reignited debates about the morality, legality, and human cost of current policies. The vocal criticism from Natalie Portman immigration criticism, alongside that of other key public figures such as Bella Hadid, Amy Poehler, and Mark Ruffalo, brings national attention to the urgent need for transparency and reform.
As investigations continue and protests grow, the nation faces a critical moment in addressing how immigration laws are enforced and the impact on American communities. The calls for accountability suggest that these events could shape immigration policy discussions well beyond this administration, while highlighting the complex balance between security and human rights.
VF caught up with John Slattery and Zoey Deutch (‘Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass’) at Sundance and asked about ICE:
“I look around at what’s happening, and I’m mortified,” said Slattery. “Amen,” added Deutch pic.twitter.com/VMcbTPJJt0
— VANITY FAIR (@VanityFair) January 26, 2026
