Katherine Heigl is standing by her decision to attend a high-profile animal rescue fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago, responding directly to critics who questioned her presence at former President Donald Trump’s Florida resort.
The actress attended the Wine, Women & Shoes annual fundraiser in Palm Beach on March 8, marking her first red carpet appearance in two years.
The three-day event raised $5.5 million for Big Dog Ranch Rescue, one of the largest no-kill dog rescue organizations in the United States.
Addressing the controversy surrounding the venue, Heigl made it clear that her focus was on the cause rather than politics.
“Animals don’t vote,” Heigl said in an interview with JustJared. “The only room they fear is the euthanasia room at a shelter. They are entirely dependent on us and have no voice of their own.”
The 47-year-old actress has long been involved in animal advocacy. She and her mother, Nancy Heigl, founded the Jason Heigl Foundation, which works to promote animal welfare and rescue efforts.
“Anyone who knows me understands that protecting animals is one of my deepest passions,” Heigl said. “My mother and I have dedicated years to this work. As a society we should be able to come together to protect those who cannot speak for themselves. It shouldn’t be a divisive issue.”
Despite the fundraising success, Heigl’s appearance sparked criticism online, with some social media users questioning her decision to attend an event held at Trump’s resort.
One commenter suggested animals would have “better judgment” than the actress.
Heigl pushed back strongly, questioning what critics had done to support animal welfare.
“I’m curious,” she wrote in response. “What meaningful actions have you taken? Do you think Instagram comments help animals who’ve been set on fire or left to starve?”
She also challenged critics who suggested supporting other charities instead.
“Have you attended these events?” she asked. “Have you donated a significant portion of your income to causes you claim to care about?”
Some supporters defended Heigl, praising her long-standing commitment to rescue efforts.
The actress reaffirmed that the focus should remain on action rather than online debate.
“If you care about animals, take action,” Heigl wrote. “Donate time, money, or your voice. It’s not about who I am. It’s about what I do.”
Heigl has been outspoken about animal welfare for years. In 2022, she advocated for legislation aimed at ending gas chamber euthanasia in Utah shelters, calling the practice “outdated and cruel.”
“I’ve said it before and I’ll keep saying it,” she said at the time. “A society’s true character is revealed by how it treats its most vulnerable members.”
