UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., Nov. 9, 2000 — “The Grinch” may have stolen Christmas,but at the world premiere of Jim Carrey’s new movie Wednesday night, it was evident that George W. Bush had stolen some of the holiday cheer from Hollywood.
With the presidential election still undecided, the possibility of the Texas governor taking the White House prompted some strong comments from stars like Rachael Leigh Cook.
“I suggest we flee the country,” quipped Cook. “It is a sad day for America. I hear Bangladesh is nice this time of year. Al (Gore), we are with you. Keep the faith.”
On the green carpet, the likes of Renée Zellweger, Eddie Murphy, Kelly Preston and Will Smith enjoyed a night of man-made snow, roasting chestnuts, caroling and, of course, The Grinch.
“This is really a fun night. I didn’t expect to have this turnout from the media and friends. It is about twice the size of anything I have ever been involved with,” said director Ron Howard.
While some stars enjoyed the Christmas cheer, others like Preston, Mindy Sterling and Markie Post were still reeling from the election uncertainty.
“My 6-year-old son is going nuts. He wants to know. Whatever the outcome is going to be — there are going to be a lot of frustrated people. And because we’re waiting even longer to find out, the anticipation wears you down. But what can say? I’m a Gore fan, ” said Sterling.
As the recount of Florida’s nearly 6 million presidential ballots resumes today, the political roller-coaster ride continues.
“The two men that are involved, Bush and Gore, are like two punch drunk fighters. None of us should have to be put through this. It really speaks to the division in the country. I’m pulling one way. I’m a Gore fan. I hope we will all pull together after this is all over,” said Post.
“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” with Jeffrey Tambor, Christine Baranski and Molly Shannon makes its way into theaters Nov. 17.
