Mindy Kaling, Hollywood Stars Will Glam Up Democrats Convention

LOS ANGELES, CA (REUTERS) – Hollywood is sending star power to the party’s national convention this week to formally nominate Kamala Harris for president.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus, John Legend, Billy Porter, and Mindy Kaling are among the entertainment luminaries expected in Chicago, the site of the four-day Democratic National Convention that starts today, August 19.

Kaling, known for long-running comedy hit “The Office,” is one of four hosts selected to emcee primetime events on the convention stage, along with “Scandal” co-stars Kerry Washington and Tony Goldwyn and “The View” commentator Ana Navarro. Each will host one night, providing introductions and periodic remarks, much like an Oscars host.

Beyonce, the Grammy winner has granted the Harris campaign permission to use the song “Freedom” to pump up crowds at public events.

Harris, who is a native Californian is no stranger to Hollywood, having served the state as both attorney general and US senator.

Many Hollywood actors, producers and filmmakers view Harris as their hometown candidate. She shares a home with husband Doug Emhoff, a former entertainment lawyer, in the celebrity enclave of Brentwood on the west side of Los Angeles. Media executives and stars got to know her during her campaigns for state office and for president in 2020.

After the convention, Hollywood figures are expected to appear at campaign rallies and get-out-the-vote drives in the weeks leading up to the Nov. 5 election.

Republican candidate Donald Trump brought out some famous backers at his party’s convention in Milwaukee in July. Country singer Lee Greenwood, pro wrestler Hulk Hogan and reality TV personality Savannah Chrisley were among those who appeared on his behalf.