Kristin Chenoweth has opened up about one of the most difficult moments of her life — the intense backlash she faced in the aftermath of activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination earlier this year.
The Broadway star admitted that the emotional toll nearly broke her, as she found herself caught between grief, misunderstanding, and public outrage.
The Backlash That Nearly Broke Her
The 57-year-old performer, known for her bright spirit and big heart, revealed in a candid chat with The Hollywood Reporter that the experience left her emotionally drained.
“It was tough on me,” Chenoweth shared, adding that she doesn’t plan to rehash the details publicly.
“It nearly broke me, and that’s all I’m going to say. You probably know my heart, so you probably know.”
Her remarks came after fans criticized her for what seemed like a show of support toward some of Kirk’s political views — something she insists was never her intention.
Expressing Grief in the Public Eye
When news broke that conservative commentator Charlie Kirk had been shot and killed at Utah Valley University on September 10, Chenoweth was among those who expressed shock and sorrow online.
Posting to Instagram shortly after the tragedy, she wrote, “I’m. So. Upset.
Didn’t always agree but appreciated some perspectives.
What a heartbreak. His young family. I know where he is now. Heaven. But still.”
She went on to describe the murder as “such a sad, senseless, and disgusting act,” before sending “prayers for the Kirk family and prayers for our nation.”
Support and Controversy Among Celebrities
Chenoweth wasn’t the only Hollywood name reacting to the shocking event.
Actress Selma Blair, known for Cruel Intentions, also shared a heartfelt message mourning Kirk’s death.
Blair wrote, “This incredible man. Who would go into the cauldron of indoctrination.
And use logic to have dialogue. I am sick for his family. For all of us.”
Chenoweth replied to the post, saying, “What you said Selma.”
That simple comment, however, triggered criticism from some of her followers, who accused her of aligning with political ideologies she didn’t actually share.
A Moment of Reflection and Regret
Looking back, Chenoweth said she has learned from the experience.
In an earlier interview with Spectrum News NY, she described her reaction as a “human moment of reflection.”
“I came to understand that my comment hurt some folks and that hurt me so badly,” she explained.
“I would never want to cause pain to anyone.”
Balancing Faith and Advocacy
The Emmy and Tony Award winner also took a moment to reflect on how her faith shapes her worldview.
“It’s no secret that I’m a Christian, that I’m a person of faith,” she said.
“It’s also no secret that I’m an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community — and for some people, that doesn’t go together. But for me, it always has and it always will.”
Her words capture the delicate balance she continues to maintain — staying true to her beliefs while standing firmly in support of love, inclusion, and understanding.
Returning to Her Broadway Roots
Despite the turbulence of the past months, Chenoweth has found solace and purpose on the stage once again.
She’s currently starring in The Queen of Versailles, marking her much-anticipated return to Broadway after nearly a decade away.
Her last major role on the Great White Way was back in 2015’s On the 20th Century — and for Chenoweth, the return feels both healing and full circle.