Actor Sean Penn recently characterized former President Donald Trump in stark terms during a podcast appearance, suggesting Trump could seek to "destroy the world." Penn offered the view while discussing potential outcomes should Trump secure a second term in office.
Speaking on a podcast hosted by Jim Acosta, Penn suggested considering "worst case scenarios" regarding a future Trump presidency. He likened Donald Trump to a spouse who murders a former partner if they cannot have them, implying Trump might have a similar destructive relationship with the world.
Penn speculated that this potential destruction could serve as both a power play and a literal intention in what he termed Trump's "final out." Asked if he believed Trump might attempt to remain in office beyond a term, Penn replied, "I think he might try to destroy the world before he ages out of life."
Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell also appeared on the podcast alongside Penn. Swalwell suggested that some leaders might suffer under future administrations for past interactions, agreeing with the need to consider potential risks. Swalwell also commented on the nature of aspiring dictatorships lacking succession plans.
The discussion occurred as Penn promoted his new film Words of War. He suggested the themes explored in the film, which centers on a Russian journalist assassinated for her work, have parallels in current conditions. Those who think it can’t happen here must be educated, Penn said.
Penn has been a consistent critic of Trump. In 2018, he penned an op-ed for TIME Magazine where he labeled Trump an "enemy of the state" and an "enemy of mankind." He stated that unity required recognizing Trump as an "enemy of compassion" and an enemy to Americans of all political leanings and to the world.
Following Penn's recent remarks, social media users reportedly reacted negatively. Some commenters on X criticized the actor's political opinions and referred to him as "washed up."
