David Spade Slams Gavin Newsom and Karen Bass Over ‘Terrifying’ Hollywood Downfall
In a bold critique, comedian David Spade has ramped up his commentary on California’s leadership, specifically targeting Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. During a recent episode of his podcast “Fly on the Wall,” co-hosted with Dana Carvey, Spade lamented the disarray within Hollywood, emphasizing the alarming decline of the industry. His remarks echo a growing concern among various celebrities about the deteriorating state of creative production in Tinseltown, highlighting the urgent need for reforms.
Spade’s Concerns About Hollywood’s Future
Spade did not hold back when expressing his thoughts on the waning film industry. He stated, “the Hollywood industry is dying” and criticized local leadership for failing to address these imminent issues. He reminisced about his early days at CBS Radford, recalling the vibrant and bustling environment of the studio that now faces bankruptcy. “Of course, just filed for bankruptcy, the lot. Terrifying in L.A. Thanks, [LA Mayor] Karen Bass. Thanks, [Gov.] Gavin [Newsom],” he quipped, underscoring his frustration with the current situation.
Carvey Joins in Criticism
Co-host Dana Carvey echoed Spade’s sentiments, noting that the Hollywood studio system is in desperate need of revitalization. He argued that tangible actions must be taken to reinvigorate production levels and suggested negotiating with unions while providing tax incentives to compete with international markets. “The amount of productions is dying, and so they have to do something so more production comes back,” Carvey asserted, emphasizing the urgent necessity for change.
A Wider Concern Among Celebrities
Spade and Carvey are not alone in their apprehensions; numerous high-profile figures have voiced similar concerns regarding Hollywood’s future. Actors like Jon Voight, Sylvester Stallone, and Mel Gibson were appointed by former President Donald Trump as special ambassadors to Hollywood. In January 2025, Trump announced an initiative to revive the industry, claiming he wanted to see it “BACK—BIGGER, BETTER, AND STRONGER THAN EVER BEFORE!”
Voight recently discussed the importance of restoring jobs to California, advocating for Trump’s decision to impose tariffs on international filming. “It’s come to a point where we really do need help,” Voight stated. He expressed gratitude toward the former president for showing an understanding of Hollywood’s significance. His insistence on collaboration across political lines suggests a desire to prioritize the industry’s revival. “We can’t let it go down the drain like Detroit,” he warned.
Evaluating Hollywood’s Deterioration
The overall sentiment among industry veterans points to a significant shift in filmmaking dynamics. Voight, with years of experience, observed the slow decline of Hollywood and noted the diminishing number of films produced in California. “I’m old enough to have touched some years of the Golden Age of Hollywood,” he reflected, lamenting its gradual deterioration. The urgency for change resonates through his words as he looks toward an incoming leadership hopeful to restore Hollywood’s legacy.
As industry experts and celebrities continue to voice their concerns about the “terrifying” state of Hollywood, the spotlight remains on Gavin Newsom and Karen Bass. Their responses to ongoing critiques could shape the future of an industry that many believe needs immediate attention.
