Katherine Heigl responds after appearance at Trump’s Mar a Lago event criticism

Katherine Heigl is pushing back against criticism after attending a dog rescue fundraiser hosted at Donald Trump’s Mar a Lago estate, releasing a blunt statement that quickly sparked debate online.

The actor, known for roles in Grey’s Anatomy and 27 Dresses, appeared at the annual Wine, Women & Shoes charity event in Palm Beach. The fundraiser supports Big Dog Ranch Rescue, the largest no kill dog shelter in the United States, and reportedly raised millions of dollars for animal welfare initiatives.

However, the location of the event immediately stirred backlash across social media because it took place at the Florida club owned by Donald Trump. Critics questioned why Heigl would attend a high profile event at the politically controversial venue.

After the reaction intensified, the actress issued a statement explaining that her involvement had nothing to do with politics and everything to do with animal advocacy.

“Animals don’t vote. The only room they don’t like is the euthanasia room at a shelter. They are completely at the mercy of us, and they have no voice of their own. This event was about animal advocacy.”

Heigl emphasised that helping animals has long been one of her biggest priorities. In 2008 she and her mother founded the Jason Heigl Foundation, an organisation dedicated to rescuing animals, supporting shelters and promoting humane treatment of pets.

Supporters argued that the charity itself should remain the focus, noting that the event raised more than five million dollars to help rescue dogs and expand facilities across several states.

Still, the controversy kept spreading online, with critics claiming celebrities should consider the political implications of the venues they choose for public appearances. Others defended Heigl’s stance, saying her message highlighted the urgent issue of shelter overcrowding and the treatment of abandoned animals.