Actor Criticizes Artemis II Moon Mission as Waste of Money

Anthony Anderson says funds should be used for issues like homelessness and rebuilding schools instead.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:36am

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An abstract, highly structured painting in soft, earthy tones of brown, green, and blue, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric planetary circles, and precise botanical spirals, conveying the structural order of the universe without using any text or symbols.As debates over the value of space exploration continue, a conceptual illustration captures the complex scientific forces and priorities at play.San Diego Today

Actor Anthony Anderson has criticized the Artemis II moon mission, calling it a waste of money that could be better spent addressing issues like homelessness and underfunded programs on Earth. Anderson questioned the purpose of the mission, arguing the funds could be used to help people in need and rebuild infrastructure in his hometown of Compton.

Why it matters

Anderson's comments highlight the ongoing debate around the value and priorities of space exploration programs, especially as the U.S. faces economic challenges and social issues that some argue should take precedence over costly space missions.

The details

In an interview with TMZ, Anderson said he doesn't 'really' care about the Artemis II flight, criticizing the high cost of 'just to turn the block around the moon' when there are pressing needs on Earth like homelessness and dilapidated schools. He suggested the money would be better spent rebuilding the elementary school he attended in Compton. Anderson also bizarrely brought up ICE deportations, questioning who would 'build this shit' for the space program.

  • The Artemis II mission is set to conclude with a Pacific splashdown near San Diego on Friday, April 11, 2026, after ten days in flight.

The players

Anthony Anderson

An American actor known for roles in TV shows like 'Black-ish' and films like 'The Departed' and 'Transformers'.

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What they’re saying

“It really doesn't make any sense to me, when we look at the grand scheme of things, about what we need here and at home, for society.”

— Anthony Anderson, Actor

“We're going to go build a space — how they going to get shit up there? ICE is here stopping everybody and deporting everybody — not to be that guy, but — who's going to build this shit?”

— Anthony Anderson, Actor

The takeaway

Anderson's criticism of the Artemis II mission reflects ongoing debates about the priorities and funding of space exploration programs, especially as the U.S. faces pressing social and economic challenges that some argue should take precedence.