Hundreds of protesters gathered in Downtown Los Angeles around L.A. Live on late Saturday afternoon, aiming to block entrances and disrupt events ahead of a high-profile fundraiser for President Joe Biden at Peacock Theater.
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| Peacock Theater AARONP/BAUER-GRIFFIN/GC IMAGES |
Shortly after 5 p.m. PT, uniformed officers rushed towards a group of protesters attempting to block an entrance by linking arms near the J.W. Marriott and the Yard House restaurant, an area designated for ticketed guests.
Some protesters wore shirts emblazoned with “Cease Fire Now” and “Not in Our Name,” while one woman held a large pink sign reading “Stop Killing Palestinians” in response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
The group of protesters has continued to grow, although it’s unclear how many guests are being prevented from entering. The Hollywood Reporter noted that other entrances to the venue remained open and clear, with people able to enter without issues.
In another scene, a group of dozens gathered on the sidewalk next to Crypto.com Arena, waving flags and chanting as they moved towards L.A. Live. A press officer with the LAPD informed The Hollywood Reporter that no arrests had been made, and officers "will continue to assess the situation" throughout the night.
A similar fundraiser held at Madison Square Garden in New York City in March featured a significant security presence ahead of an event that included Biden, Obama, and former President Bill Clinton in conversation with Stephen Colbert. That event was also briefly disrupted by Palestinian supporters.
The Hollywood Reporter is already stationed inside the Peacock Theater ahead of the fundraiser, scheduled to begin in the early evening, featuring Biden in conversation with former President Barack Obama and moderated by Jimmy Kimmel. George Clooney and Julia Roberts are also slated to appear, along with other A-listers, at an event that has raised a historic $28 million.
As of 6 p.m. PT, hundreds of guests have gathered in the lobby of the Peacock Theater. The event began early with a VIP pre-reception in the lobby, offering photo opportunities for Democratic supporters and wealthy guests. A large group of politicos, including Mayor Karen Bass, Ted Lieu, and Maxine Waters, are participating in the photo line with Biden and Obama.
Near the check-in inside the J.W. Marriott, The Hollywood Reporter observed Jeffrey Katzenberg, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and numerous other politicos and Democratic supporters. Super producer Ben Winston was also seen in the lobby of the Peacock Theater after 5 p.m. PT.
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