Celebrities Lament Wasted Donations to Disgraced Swalwell Campaign

Jon Cryer, Kathy Griffin, and others express disappointment after backing failed California gubernatorial bid.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 9:33pm

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Several high-profile celebrities, including Jon Cryer, Kathy Griffin, Robert De Niro, and Jon Hamm, donated significant sums of money to Eric Swalwell's failed campaign for California governor. Now, with Swalwell facing allegations of misconduct, the donors are expressing regret over their financial support.

Why it matters

The story highlights the risks of political donations, especially to candidates who later become embroiled in scandal. It also raises questions about the influence of celebrity endorsements and the vetting process for political campaigns.

The details

The article focuses on Jon Cryer, the former star of 'Two and a Half Men,' who was spotted looking downcast after reportedly wasting $10,000 on Swalwell's campaign. Other notable donors include Kathy Griffin, who donated $10,000, as well as Robert De Niro, Jon Hamm, and Bryan Lourd, the CEO of Creative Artists Agency, who each contributed between $10,000 and $12,500.

  • Cryer was spotted looking downcast on his 61st birthday, April 17, 2026.
  • The donations to Swalwell's campaign were made prior to the allegations of misconduct against him.

The players

Jon Cryer

A former star of the sitcom 'Two and a Half Men' who donated $10,000 to Eric Swalwell's failed campaign for California governor.

Eric Swalwell

A disgraced politician who ran for California governor and is now under investigation by the Department of Justice.

Kathy Griffin

A comedian who donated $10,000 to Eric Swalwell's campaign, citing the need for a 'most electable' candidate.

Robert De Niro

An actor who donated $10,000 to Eric Swalwell's campaign.

Jon Hamm

An actor who donated $10,000 to Eric Swalwell's campaign.

Bryan Lourd

The CEO of Creative Artists Agency, who donated $12,500 to Eric Swalwell's campaign.

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What they’re saying

“We're in this era where only freaking white straight guys can win. And so if he's the one that's most electable, we don't want the two Republican challengers.”

— Kathy Griffin, Comedian

What’s next

The Department of Justice is currently investigating the allegations against Eric Swalwell, and the outcome of that investigation could have further implications for the donors who supported his campaign.

The takeaway

This story serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of political donations, especially to candidates who later become embroiled in scandal. It highlights the need for more thorough vetting of candidates and the potential consequences for donors who back the wrong horse.