Pink leads celebrity charge at DNC after Democrats said they weren’t leaning into star power

The Democratic National Convention has typically been a showcase of the party’s hold on Hollywood through its use of star power throughout the event, and the 2024 DNC is no different.

While Democrats had said they were not going to lean as much into the celebrity factor, the DNC in Chicago has become a star-studded showcase as the party makes its pitch for Vice President Kamala Harris’s White House bid. These are some of the notable stars who have or will perform or speak before the convention.

Pink

The singer, best known for the hit songs “So What” and “Raise Your Glass,” is reported by CNN to be performing before Harris accepts the Democratic Party’s nomination for president on Thursday evening.

Pink has not been shy about her political beliefs, specifically on LGBT matters and abortion, among other things.

The Chicks

The group formerly known as the Dixie Chicks, which sparked controversy in 2003 after criticizing then-President George W. Bush and his decision to invade Iraq, will make their second consecutive appearance at the Democratic National Convention, after doing so in the largely virtual 2020 DNC.

The country singing group will reportedly be singing the national anthem on the final night of the DNC, as they did during the 2020 convention, according to CNN.

Oprah Winfrey

The former talk show host has previously been supportive of Democratic presidential candidates, and she offered her support to Harris in a speech before the DNC on Wednesday. A registered independent, Winfrey urged those not affiliated with a political party to support Harris.

“I always voted my values, and that is what is needed in this election, now more than ever,” Winfrey said Wednesday. “So I’m calling on all you independents and all you undecideds, you know this is true. You know, I’m telling you the truth that values and character matter most of all in leadership and in life. And more than anything, you know this is true that decency and respect are on the ballot in 2024.”

John Legend

The singer, best known for his song “All of Me,” returned to the DNC stage Wednesday night to perform “Let’s Go Crazy” by Prince, with fellow artist Sheila E. The song was a tribute to Harris’s running mate, Gov. Tim Walz (D-MN), whose state was home to the late guitarist.

Legend previously performed at the 2008 and 2020 Democratic National Conventions. He has been an outspoken supporter of Democrats for his entire career.

Stevie Wonder

Wonder performed his song “Higher Ground” on Wednesday at the DNC and offered brief remarks before performing.

He has previously supported Democratic candidates, including 2016 Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton, and has been critical of former President Donald Trump.

Lil Jon

During the DNC roll call, Atlanta native Lil Jon performed his song “Turn Down for What,” as Georgia was introduced. His live performance came during a roll call vote that featured other hit songs from each of the states as they were introduced.

Other celebrities who have appeared at the convention this week in Chicago include singer Marren Morris, comedian Kenan Thompson, actress Mindy Kaling, and actress Kerry Washington.

The Democratic National Convention will conclude on Thursday evening, when Harris will address the delegates as she pitches herself to the country for the November election.