Podcast Summary: "In Hollywood, the Revolution Will Be Televised ft. Isaiah Washington"
The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson
Release Date: August 18, 2020
Introduction
In this engaging episode of "The 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson," host Ben Ferguson delves deep into the intersection of Hollywood and politics with special guest Isaiah Washington, a prominent actor turned political activist. The conversation sheds light on Washington's journey from the entertainment industry to his outspoken stance against Hollywood's prevailing leftist ideologies.
Isaiah Washington’s Career Journey
Isaiah Washington begins by reflecting on his 24-year tenure in Hollywood, highlighting the challenges he faced as a black actor navigating a predominantly leftist landscape. He discusses the microaggressions and colorism prevalent in the industry, emphasizing how limited opportunities pushed him towards political activism.
"I've been a contradiction in this town for 24 years... It had everything to do with microaggressions."
— Isaiah Washington [00:57]
Washington recounts his initial reluctance to pursue television, which he dismissed as "not cool," only to be enticed by a lucrative commercial deal that led him to reevaluate his career path.
"I did a commercial and I got a check in the mailbox and I was completely corrupted."
— Isaiah Washington [01:45]
He further explains how he sought roles that defied Hollywood stereotypes, aiming to portray "thugs with a heart" to showcase intelligence and depth beyond the typical one-dimensional characters.
"I need to play a bad guy or a thug that has a little bit more intelligence... And it worked."
— Isaiah Washington [06:24]
Transition to Political Activism
Washington's shift towards political consciousness is deeply rooted in his military experience during the Reagan administration. He shares a poignant moment of witnessing the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster, which profoundly impacted his worldview and mental health.
"I was clinically depressed because no one... was listening."
— Isaiah Washington [03:28]
This experience led him to leave his military career, walk away from his personal life, and face homelessness, a period he describes as transformative and pivotal in his journey towards activism.
Views on Criminal Justice Reform
A significant portion of the discussion centers around criminal justice reform, particularly the First Step Act. Washington praises former President Donald Trump's efforts in this domain, contrasting it with previous administrations' inaction.
"Trump championed that and that we got it done as a bipartisan matter."
— Ted Cruz [10:33]
Washington criticizes the Democrats for their prolonged inaction on reforming the criminal justice system, emphasizing the importance of differentiating between violent and nonviolent offenders.
"The left has tricked these useful idiots... It never made history."
— Isaiah Washington [09:41]
He underscores the need for policies that support reformation rather than punitive measures, especially for first-time nonviolent offenders.
Critique of Hollywood Politics
Washington offers a scathing critique of Hollywood's political landscape, labeling it as a hub of leftist ideology where dissent is neither tolerated nor welcomed. He describes Hollywood as prioritizing personal wealth and maintaining an establishment that stifles genuine political discourse.
"These people in Hollywood are fighting for their greed."
— Isaiah Washington [17:58]
He further elaborates on the lack of diversity in political thought within the industry, noting that many stars and executives prioritize financial gain over ideological consistency or moral responsibility.
Discussion on China’s Influence on Hollywood
A heated segment of the conversation addresses the influence of China on Hollywood. Washington criticizes Hollywood executives for pandering to Chinese interests, suggesting that economic dependence has led to compromised values and stifled dissent.
"Hollywood is paying the bill. China rather is paying the bills for Hollywood."
— Isaiah Washington [19:04]
He recounts an anecdote involving John Lasseter, highlighting arrogance and a lack of genuine engagement with Chinese counterparts, ultimately portraying Hollywood as a sector too financially beholden to China to resist its influence.
Walk Away Movement
The Walk Away Movement is another focal point of the discussion. Washington explains his involvement and the backlash he faced from the Hollywood community for his outspoken support of conservative policies and figures.
"I started tweeting like crazy, and it started driving the Democrats crazy. Everybody attacked me."
— Isaiah Washington [16:18]
He details his collaboration with Brandon Strzok, leveraging his platform to amplify conservative voices and challenging the entrenched leftist narrative within Hollywood.
Predictions for the Future
In a bold prediction, Washington voices his concerns about the outcomes of political elections, specifically addressing the potential rise of Joe Biden. He warns of societal unrest and a possible civil war within six months of Biden's presidency, a claim he presents with unwavering confidence.
"If Joe Biden wins... there are 6 million people that will be very, very happy to see Biden try to go into the white House, you will have a civil war and it will be over within six months, guaranteed."
— Isaiah Washington [25:18]
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with a discussion on the perseverance required to challenge the status quo within Hollywood. Washington remains steadfast in his commitment to his beliefs, despite facing significant opposition and ostracization from the entertainment industry. The conversation underscores the deep-seated political divisions and the challenges of fostering diverse ideological perspectives within a heavily politicized environment.
"The revolution will be televised... or maybe it will be live streamed."
— Isaiah Washington [25:20]
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- "I've been a contradiction in this town for 24 years... It had everything to do with microaggressions." — Isaiah Washington [00:57]
- "I did a commercial and I got a check in the mailbox and I was completely corrupted." — Isaiah Washington [01:45]
- "Trump championed that and that we got it done as a bipartisan matter." — Ted Cruz [10:33]
- "These people in Hollywood are fighting for their greed." — Isaiah Washington [17:58]
- "Hollywood is paying the bill. China rather is paying the bills for Hollywood." — Isaiah Washington [19:04]
- "If Joe Biden wins... there are 6 million people that will be very, very happy to see Biden try to go into the white House, you will have a civil war and it will be over within six months, guaranteed." — Isaiah Washington [25:18]
Final Thoughts
This episode offers a candid exploration of the fraught relationship between Hollywood and conservative politics, as narrated by someone who has experienced both worlds firsthand. Isaiah Washington's insights provide a provocative look at the systemic challenges within the entertainment industry and the broader American political landscape.
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