Oscar-winning actor Javier Bardem did not hold back when the subject of Donald Trump came up at this year's Cannes Film Festival. The Spanish star, known for his outspoken political views, delivered a blistering attack on the US President and other world leaders during a press conference for his new film The Beloved.
Bardem's Explosive Outburst
Speaking to the Mirror and other press at Cannes, Bardem, 57, was asked about the theme of absent fathers in the psychological drama, which follows an Oscar-winning director trying to reconnect with his estranged actress daughter. The actor, who has two children with his wife Penelope Cruz, quickly turned the conversation to toxic masculinity and global politics.
He said: "That problem also goes to Mr Trump and Mr Putin and Mr Netanyahu, the big b***s man saying, 'My big, my c*ck is bigger than yours, and I'm gonna bomb the sh** out of you. It's a f***ing male toxic behaviour that is creating thousands of dead people, so yeah, we have to talk about it. And I think we are talking about it…"
Bardem continued: "We are more aware of it, thankfully, because maybe 20 years ago [this] was something that nobody will pay attention to as a problem. And I think this movie speaks about that… in this movie there are three people that say 'No' to [his character] Stephan: three women."
Personal Reflections on Toxic Masculinity
The No Country For Old Men star also reflected on his own upbringing in Spain, where he experienced toxic masculinity firsthand. He credited his mother, Spanish actress Pilar Bardem, for teaching him to be strong and unafraid. He expressed horror at the number of women in Spain being killed by former partners.
Bardem has previously described his mother as the defining force in his life, praising her "lioness-like strength," sacrifice, and unwavering defence of human dignity. He was raised by her as a single mother.
The issue of toxic masculinity has been a major talking point in popular culture, with Netflix series Adolescence and Louis Theroux's documentary Inside the Manosphere both exploring the topic.
Addressing Blacklisting Rumours
During the press conference, Bardem also addressed rumours that his outspokenness had led to him being blacklisted by certain production companies. He said: "The fear does exist, granted. But one has to do things - even if you feel a bit scared or afraid. You have to be able to look at yourself in the mirror, look at yourself in the eyes - and that was my case. My mother taught me to be the way I am. There is no plan B. This entails consequences, which I am fully ready to shoulder."
Bardem's comments at Cannes have once again highlighted his willingness to speak out on political issues, despite potential professional repercussions.
