George Clooney used his platform at the Venice Film Festival this week to praise his wife, Amal Clooney, for her human rights advocacy and to criticize the Trump administration. Speaking at a masterclass on Thursday, the actor highlighted his wife's legal victories, stating she is "the only person to have ever put ISIS on trial and won."

Clooney, who received the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement on Wednesday, emphasized the importance of his wife's work and the challenges they face. "Amal’s taken some very difficult stands over the years, and we’ve had to face some pretty heavy criticism based on that," he said. He also noted that while he and his wife engage in serious discussions about human rights and politics, they maintain a normal family life with their two children.

Clooney also addressed criticism directed at actors who speak out on political issues. "I didn't give away my freedom of speech the minute I became an actor," he asserted. He acknowledged that speaking out can lead to negative reactions, including receiving "mean tweets from the President of the United States," but stated he can handle it.

By the way, my wife's the only person to have ever put ISIS on trial and won', he lauded. 'She's a badass, and she gets the job done. We do it for our families. We do it for our friends'

The actor reiterated his previous criticisms of the Trump administration, calling those in charge "the least qualified people" and suggesting the U.S. is experiencing a "kakistocracy," a government run by the least qualified or competent citizens. He expressed hope for change through the upcoming November election and a potential "restoration" in 2028.

Clooney denounced the administration's approach as "cruel" and noted a perceived absence of basic decency in public life. He cited an example of U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posting a photo that appeared to mock an overweight female Canadian soldier. "Where is the sense of decency in all of this?" Clooney asked.

George Clooney continued his quest to champion human rights at this year's Venice Film Festival as he made a series of talks on politics and activism at his masterclass on Thursday

Comparing the current times to other difficult periods in U.S. history, such as 1968 which saw widespread protests and the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Bobby Kennedy, Clooney expressed his optimism that the country will overcome its challenges and emerge stronger.

The legendary actor looked dashing in a grey suit