Did Seth Rogen’s Bold Comments About Trump Get Censored at Science’s Biggest Night?
This year’s Breakthrough Prize ceremony, often dubbed the "Oscars of Science," was marked by a star-studded lineup and significant scientific recognition. However, the event also sparked controversy when actor Seth Rogen’s sharp criticism of President Donald Trump was notably edited out of the official video coverage. The omission has raised questions about censorship and the relationship between Hollywood and political power.
Held on April 5, 2025, at the Barker Hanger in Santa Monica, the ceremony featured presentations by Rogen, alongside actor Edward Norton, awarding the Special Breakthrough Prize in Physics to Gerardus ‘t Hooft, a Nobel laureate in quantum field theory. Both Rogen and Norton addressed the audience filled with notable figures from Silicon Valley including Google co-founder Sergey Brin and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
Rogen used his platform to mention control and funding of science under Trump’s administration. He reportedly said, “It’s amazing that others in this room underwrote electing a man who, in the last week, single-handedly destroyed all of American science.” He added, “It’s amazing how much good science you can destroy with $320 million and RFK Jr., very fast.” This pointed critique, however, was absent from the officially posted 99-minute event video on YouTube.
The Breakthrough Prize Foundation later stated that the decision to edit several remarks, including Rogen’s, was made to fit the originally planned runtime of the program. Critics have questioned this justification, as the ceremony is not bound by traditional broadcast timing constraints.
Rogen's controversial comments seem to underline a stark irony regarding Silicon Valley's support for Trump, who has faced backlash for his cuts to science funding and decisions that contradict scientific consensus. With the involvement of major tech figures like Zuckerberg and Brin—who have previously met with Trump—Rogen’s remarks serve as a potent reminder of the ongoing tension between politics and science.
There has been growing frustration among scientists, illustrated by a letter signed by 1,900 prominent scientists openly criticizing the Trump administration for its threats to universities and federal funding. Rogen’s boldness was a stark contrast to the ambiance of a seemingly celebratory awards night, highlighting the role of celebrity voices in political discourse.
Furthermore, Rogen’s comments received mixed reactions during the live taping, with an atmosphere of discomfort as Norton appeared visibly anxious after Rogen’s quip.
The incident has raised further questions about the integrity of so-called prestigious ceremonies and the extent of political influences within these spaces. Whether Rogen's statements were truly censored for runtime reasons or if they were silenced to curry favor with powerful donors remains a topic for discourse.
The controversy prompts reflections on how political figures and public figures interact, and the implications for scientific integrity. With Rogen's critical voice now muted in official recounts, one must wonder: will audacious commentary continue to find a platform at such esteemed gatherings, or will it be frowned upon and omitted in future broadcasts?
What are your thoughts on the matter? Should public commentary on politics be welcomed at such events? Share your opinions in the comments below!
