In an era distinguished by scrutinizing the wealthy and the disparity between socio-economic classes, Hollywood actress and left-wing activist Alyssa Milano is the latest to be flamed in the court of public opinion. The famous actress drew online ire for requesting her significant Twitter following, much of which constitutes everyday folks, to fund an athletic trip for her son’s baseball team. Milano, worth an estimated ten million dollars, is well known for embracing controversial causes, yet her latest bid to solicit public contributions through a GoFundMe seems like an unexpected personal misstep that is generating substantial backlash.
Best remembered for her popular role in the TV show “Charmed,” and numerous other television series and films, Milano and her husband David Bugliari, a successful talent agent, initiated the fundraising page for their son’s baseball team trip to Cooperstown. The GoFundMe campaign was set up in her married name, Alyssa Bugliari, with her husband named as the recipient of the funds. The scheme quickly caught the attention and criticism of internet users, who perceived her move as tone-deaf and disconnected from the economic realities of average citizens.
The tweet posted by Milano, generating almost 11 million views, explained details of the trip and appealed to her followers for financial support. “My son’s baseball team is raising money for their Cooperstown trip. Any amount would be so greatly appreciated,” she stated. The online reactions were swift and predominantly negative.
Critics emphasized Milano’s wealth and access to resources that could easily cover the requisite costs. “Imagine being so out of touch that you ask your followers to contribute money to your child’s trip when you have a net worth of 10 million dollars,” reacted one user. Outkick founder Clay Travis was even less forgiving, making a pointed statement, calling her actions “next level tone-deaf.” He noted, “Alyssa Milano is worth millions, but she went on Twitter to beg people much poorer than her to pay for her son’s baseball team to attend a travel tournament in Cooperstown, NY. Next level tone deaf.”
Despite the wave of criticism, Milano defended her actions in a subsequent post. “I’m getting media inquiries about whether I have financially contributed to my son’s baseball team. I’ve paid for uniforms for the entire team and coaches, thrown birthday parties, and sponsor any kid who can’t afford monthly dues,” she stated. She went on to express her gratitude to those who contributed to the cause, emphasizing the relief such funds provide to the boys and their families.
This particular incident sheds unique light on the social disconnect between celebrities and ordinary citizens, with the boundaries of what is publicly acceptable coming into sharper focus. The theme of celebrities leveraging their immense platforms to raise funds or tackle issues is not new, but the backlash against Milano illuminates public intolerance for attempts perceived as exploitative or indifferent to the reality of socio-economic struggles faced by large sections of their audience. While Milano’s efforts on behalf of her son’s team could be seen as emblematic of wider issues concerning youth sports funding, the manner in which she sought support has incited accusations of profound tone-deafness in relation to the economic realities faced by everyday Americans.
https://x.com/Alyssa_Milano/status/1750935582208106972?s=20
In conclusion, the public response to Alyssa Milano’s fundraising appeal is a stark reminder that with adequate means comes great responsibility, especially when occupying positions of influence. The negative reactions, particularly in light of Milano’s substantial wealth, highlight public expectations for celebrities and affluent individuals to use their wealth and influence in sensitive and socially conscious ways. If there’s a lesson to be learned, it’s that those in privileged positions must ensure they remain attuned to the concerns and realities of the less advantaged segments of the society they interact with and cater to. After all, it’s these segments of society that often make up a significant proportion of the audiences which contribute to their success. The incident serves as a timely reminder – always strive to be generous, but be sensitive in how you solicit generosity from others.
