As the nation marks the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, numerous celebrities have shared poignant reflections and tributes. The attacks resulted in the deaths of 2,977 people and irrevocably altered the United States.
Actor Mark Wahlberg posted a video on Instagram featuring an American flag, writing, "This anniversary is always a gut punch of emotions…words just can’t say it all. #neverforget911 #freedomisntfree." Wahlberg is among many public figures who have used social media to commemorate the day.
Martha Stewart recalled watching the events unfold on television while in Tokyo, noting the difficulty in reaching family and friends in the U.S. She described a moment of unexpected solace at a temple in Japan, designed by Minoru Yamasaki, the same architect of the World Trade Center. Stewart stated that while at the temple, "the organ played America the Beautiful for us. All of us in my small group stood in awe and disbelief and we all cried for the people lost that day."
Hugh Jackman shared a video montage on Instagram, including an image of Ground Zero in the immediate aftermath of the attacks, with a message to "Show up for one another @911memorial." Sarah Jessica Parker also posted a video montage of New York City, with a beam of light rising behind One World Trade Center, accompanied by the message, "September 11th, 2026, 25 years. We never forget. I ❤️ NY. Forever. And ever. X, SJ."
Dean Cain shared a tribute on X, noting that a cross displayed behind him was made from steel salvaged from the fallen towers. "Never Forget," he wrote.
The British royal family also acknowledged the anniversary, sharing details of a Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace that included performances of the U.S. and U.K. national anthems. The royal family's post stated, "Remembering all those affected by the tragic events of 9/11, 25 years ago today."
In New York City, musical tributes are planned, including performances by Cyndi Lauper, Lainey Wilson, and John Ondrasik of Five For Fighting during "9/11 Tribute in Light: Live from Lower Manhattan." These events aim to honor those killed, as well as survivors, first responders, and affected communities.