Ben Stiller came under scrutiny after making a three-word remark around the same time a shooting was reported at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.
Some MAGA-aligned figures suggested that Stiller’s “Got it done” post was referencing the incident and were quick to criticize him in the comments.
It was later clarified that this was not the case, though the intense reaction against Ben Stiller has continued to circulate online.
Ben Stiller’s Vague Phase Drew Attention From MAGA Circles
On Saturday, Ben Stiller drew attention online after his social media activity around the time of a shooting outside the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner sparked discussion.
Stiller, a longtime New York Knicks fan, was actively reacting in real time to the team’s NBA Playoffs Game 4 matchup against the Atlanta Hawks.
The game ended around 8:53 p.m. ET, just minutes before news alerts began circulating about the incident near the White House.
Around that time, Stiller posted the words “Got it done” on his X account, seemingly referencing his team winning against its opponent.
However, the phrase quickly went viral due to its vague wording and the coincidental timing of the message. In no time, it also drew attention from some in MAGA-aligned circles and unleashed a barrage of questions and criticism of Stiller.
How MAGA Fans Bashed Ben Stiller Over His Remark
One of those who quickly commented on Stiller’s post was Rep. Nancy Mace, who asked him, “Got what done?” seemingly prompting him to clarify his meaning.
Richard Grenell, Trump’s envoy for special missions, reacted more bluntly, writing, “WTF?”
Later, a community note clarified what Stiller had meant by his remarks, but it did not stop further criticism from some right-wing users.
One user claimed the comedian was trying to be clever with his post and deliberately framed it in a vague manner.
“I guess you think you’re clever and were giggling as you typed it, knowing that you could present it one way as oh so innocently to the public, and then snicker behind the scenes with your c-nty cohorts. You’re such a pathetic little p-ssy,” the individual wrote.
Another person claimed in a bizarre comment, “Sorry Ben, your guy missed. I really wish your side would stop trying to assassinate people you disagree with.”
The Actor Was Defended From The Flood Of Backlash
Conversely, Stiller did receive some support from netizens, who knew what he meant by the statement.
“All people had to do was look at the time stamp, and that he’s a die-hard Knicks fan. Might not agree with him much, but stretching it into something it’s not is diabolical,” one wrote.
Another person noted, “MAGA is acting like Stiller is talking about Trump and not the Knicks win. F-cking morons.”
“Republicans legit trying to turn a basketball post into something else lmfao these people can’t be real no way you this stupid unsupervised,” a third individual stated about the bizarre reaction from MAGA supporters.
Ben Stiller Blasted The White House For Using The Clip Of His Comedy In A War Post
The reaction from MAGA supporters was not entirely surprising, given that Stiller has previously made clear he is not a fan of Donald Trump’s administration.
Last month, he called out the White House for using a clip from his 2008 comedy” Tropic Thunder” in a social media post that appeared to promote U.S. military action involving Iran.
The high-energy clip included scenes from Stiller’s comedy alongside clips from “Braveheart,” “Gladiator,” “Breaking Bad,” and “The Matrix,” with the bizarre caption, “JUSTICE THE AMERICAN WAY.”
Stiller pointed out that he had not given permission for his work to be used and had no interest in it being used in such a manner.
“Hey White House,” the comedian posted. “Please remove the Tropic Thunder clip. We never gave you permission and have no interest in being a part of your propaganda machine. War is not a movie.”
Other Celebrities Have Called Out The White House For Using Their Art
Stiller isn’t the only celebrity who has criticized the White House for using their creative work in political messaging.
Kesha also spoke out after her song “Blow” was used in a war-themed video back in February.
“It’s come to my attention that The White House has used one of my songs on TikTok to incite violence and threaten war,” the musician said on Instagram at the time. “Trying to make light of war is disgusting and inhumane.”
She also outrightly stated that she doesn’t consent to her “music being used to promote violence of any kind.”
Sabrina Carpenter also slammed the White House for using her song in the promotion of a clip about ICE arrests.
“Do not ever involve me or my music to benefit your inhumane agenda,” Carpenter blasted the administration at the time.