Celebrities Attend Intimate Paul McCartney Concert in LA Amid Protests

Taylor Swift, Stevie Nicks, and other stars joined the legendary musician for a show at the historic Fonda Theatre.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 5:58pm

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As protests against political 'kings' swept across the United States, a different kind of gathering took place in Hollywood over the weekend - an intimate concert by Paul McCartney attended by a host of celebrities. The show at the 1,200-capacity Fonda Theatre featured a setlist drawing heavily from McCartney's work with The Beatles and Wings, with the legendary musician briefly poking fun at President Donald Trump's dance moves, which drew boos from the audience.

Why it matters

The contrast between the large-scale political demonstrations and this exclusive concert highlights the diverse ways individuals seek solace and express their values during times of social and political unrest. The appeal of a shared cultural experience, like a McCartney performance, can offer a sense of community and upliftment for attendees.

The details

Stevie Nicks, Taylor Swift, Margot Robbie, Billie Eilish, and Ringo Starr were among the celebrities who attended the concert. McCartney referenced the Fonda Theatre's history, noting it originally opened 100 years ago under the name 'The Music Box.' While the setlist included classics like 'Help!', 'Something,' and 'Band on the Run,' some of The Beatles' more overtly political songs, such as 'Revolution' and McCartney's 'Pipes of Peace,' were not performed.

  • The concert took place on Saturday night, March 29, 2026.
  • McCartney recently announced his 19th studio album, 'The Boys of Dungeon Lane,' which is scheduled for release in May.

The players

Paul McCartney

A legendary British musician, singer-songwriter, and record and film producer who gained worldwide fame as a member of the rock band The Beatles.

Stevie Nicks

An American singer-songwriter who is best known for her work as a solo artist and as a member of the rock band Fleetwood Mac.

Taylor Swift

An American singer-songwriter who is one of the most successful music artists of all time, known for her pop and country music.

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What they’re saying

“Supporting McCartney felt like supporting someone who we hope has good values and good ideas about how things should be.”

— Annika Ahmed, 44-year-old employee of the Los Angeles Unified School District

What’s next

McCartney's intimate performances may continue to offer a space for connection and reflection amidst broader societal challenges as he prepares to release his new album 'The Boys of Dungeon Lane' in May.

The takeaway

The McCartney concert provided a respite from the political turmoil, offering attendees a shared cultural experience that fostered a sense of community and upliftment during a time of social unrest.