Celebrities Speak Out After Deadly ICE Shootings in Minneapolis
A number of well-known singers, actors and public figures have spoken out against the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after two fatal shootings by federal agents in Minneapolis, Minnesota in January 2026. The deaths have sparked protests and widespread public criticism of immigration enforcement tactics.
What Happened in Minneapolis
Earlier this month, Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse, and Renée Good, a mother of three, were shot and killed by ICE agents during immigration enforcement operations in Minneapolis. Videos of the incidents were shared online and raised national outrage.
These shootings came amid a larger federal immigration roundup that sent thousands of agents into Minnesota — part of what officials called an enforcement campaign. The deaths prompted protests, calls for investigations and criticism of the federal government’s approach.
Celebrities React and Speak Out
Many Hollywood stars and musicians have used their platforms to condemn the violence, call for justice and urge political action:
Billie Eilish: Pop star Billie Eilish posted on social media urging other celebrities to speak out and challenge silence on ICE actions. She also called Pretti a real American hero and shared resources for activism.
Pedro Pascal: Actor Pedro Pascal shared powerful messages on Instagram, calling for transparency and justice and saying that the American people deserve to know what happened in the shootings.
Katy Perry: Singer Katy Perry encouraged her fans to “turn anger into action,” asking people to contact their U.S. senators and urge them to reconsider funding for ICE and related agencies.
Ariana Grande and Kerry Washington: Ariana Grande and actress Kerry Washington pushed followers to call their representatives and oppose policies they see as harmful, focusing on federal responsibility for migrant safety.
Jamie Lee Curtis: Actress Jamie Lee Curtis shared statements from the families of the victims and called on people to demand accountability and truth from officials.
Other Voices: Other celebrities including Cynthia Nixon, Walton Goggins, Mandy Moore, and stars like Jennifer Aniston and Amanda Seyfried have shared anti-ICE posts or resources for protests.
Bruce Springsteen’s Protest Song
Legendary musician Bruce Springsteen released a new protest song titled “Streets of Minneapolis” in response to the shootings. The song honors Pretti and Good and criticizes ICE and federal immigration policy, with powerful imagery and protest themes. It drew large attention online shortly after release.
Why This Matters
Celebrities often have large audiences, and when they speak out about social or political issues, their messages can reach millions of people. In this case, their reactions reflect deep public concerns about immigration enforcement, use of force, civil liberties and how government agencies operate in communities.
Their statements have also encouraged fans to take action — such as contacting lawmakers, attending protests or sharing information about the events and what they see as necessary reforms.
Bottom Line
After the Minneapolis ICE shootings that killed two U.S. residents, many high-profile entertainers and public figures have publicly criticized Immigration and Customs Enforcement. They are calling for justice, accountability and political engagement, using their platforms to urge change and support affected communities. These public voices add to growing national discussions on immigration policy and law enforcement practices in the United States.
About the author
Annelise Sylta
Annelise Sylta is a member of the editorial staff at The Showbiz Journal. She holds an MBA from FIDM and brings a professional background in marketing, communications, branding, and audience engagement to her work with the publication. Her experience provides an additional perspective on the intersection of entertainment, culture, media, and contemporary lifestyle.
