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McCain Ad Angers Hollywood

"Celebrity" ad offends linguists, stars, Paris Hilton's parents

By Elizabeth Wolff, Newser User

Posted Aug 1, 2008 10:05 AM CDT

(Newser) – Tinseltown is ticked over John McCain’s recent ad likening Barack Obama to Britney Spears—and to Paris Hilton, whose parents have donated the maximum to the senator's campaign. The problem isn't just looking ungrateful, reports the LA Times, but the fine distinction between a mere “celebrity” and a "rock star" like Obama.

What's more, McCain risks alienating other big donors like Harrison Ford and friends such as staunch liberal Warren Beatty. "That ad diminishes him and makes him look silly," said Norman Lear. Meanwhile, Paris Hilton’s grandfather, a generous donor to McCain and the GOP, is "furious," McCain adviser Martin Eisenstadt writes on his personal blog.

[Images (5)]

[Videos (1)]

Warren Beatty, with his wife Annette Bening, considered himself a friend of John McCain's. (AP Photo/Matt Sayles)

Socialite Kathy Hilton and husband Rick Hilton are big McCain donors and are now miffed he dissed their daughter Paris. (AP Photo/Dan Steinberg)

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger smiles following his endorsement of Republican presidential hopeful, Sen. John McCain in January. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak, File)

Paris Hilton never authorized the use of her image for John McCain's anti-Obama "celebrity" ad, her rep tells People.com. (AP Photo/Dan Steinberg)

Hollywood is miffed over McCain's latest "celebrity" ad. (AP Photo/Don Ryan, File)

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McCain's Latest Ad Against Obama compares the presumptive Democratic nominee to Britney Spears and Paris Hilton. (gangshabi)

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McCain Ad Angers Hollywood