Julia Roberts and Sean Penn Urge Return of ‘Shame’ in Culture
URGENT UPDATE: Julia Roberts and Sean Penn have sparked a vital conversation about cancel culture and the role of “shame” in society during a recent interview with Variety. The discussion took place at the premiere of “Ticket to Paradise” in Los Angeles, highlighting the duo’s thoughts on the current state of cultural discourse in 2025.
Roberts emphasized the need for “listening” in today’s societal interactions, stating, “We’re in this time of a lot of talk therapy, a lot of what I’d call the trauma industry. I think shame is underrated these days.” This urgent appeal resonates with audiences as the conversation around cancel culture continues to dominate headlines.
During the interview, Roberts reflected on a pivotal moment while working on her latest film, “After the Hunt.” She recalled intimate discussions with fellow cast members, including Ayo Edebiri, Andrew Garfield, and director Luca Guadagnino. “It was so nice to have the time and to be with truly bright people, and hearing what everybody had to say,” she noted.
Penn echoed Roberts’ sentiments, asserting that society has lost the art of humility. He stated, “‘Not everything is supposed to make you comfortable’ — I just wanted to go, ‘Thank God somebody’s saying this.'” His remarks come at a time when many are questioning the implications of cancel culture and its effects on public discourse.
The two stars agree that a return to genuine conversation is essential. “Really bright people do not jockey for their position. They share their ideas and feelings and then they listen intently,” Roberts explained. This call for more profound engagement implores audiences to reconsider how they interact in an increasingly polarized environment.
The insights from Roberts and Penn come as cultural conversations become more intense and divisive. Their reflections may serve as a catalyst for broader discussions about accountability and the role of shame in personal growth and societal progress.
As the dialogue continues to unfold, fans and critics alike are encouraged to share their thoughts on the need for renewed humility and active listening in today’s culture.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, as the entertainment world grapples with these pressing issues.
