In a story that sounds like it was ripped straight from a political parody sketch, social media is abuzz with rumors that President Biden’s so-called “autopen” has approved more than $200 million in federal grants to a handful of Hollywood’s most recognizable stars. The eyebrow-raising twist? Critics online claim these payments were really “thank you” checks for celebrity endorsements, all courtesy of taxpayer funds.
The figures making headlines include Rosie O’Donnell, Oprah Winfrey, and Whoopi Goldberg—three outspoken public figures known for their political commentary and occasional support of Democratic causes. According to the rumor mill, the grants were processed automatically, without the president personally signing off on them, thanks to the autopen—a device that allows a mechanical signature on official documents.
Political opponents have seized on the claim as symbolic of wasteful government spending, even as no official evidence has surfaced to substantiate the allegations. “We believe these so-called grants are nothing more than payoff checks for public loyalty,” said one anonymous critic quoted in online forums. “And if that’s the case, it’s a betrayal of every taxpayer in America.”
The White House has dismissed the chatter outright, calling it “a ridiculous fabrication that doesn’t deserve a serious response.” Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, when asked about the supposed celebrity payments during a briefing, simply laughed and said, “This is a new one. We’ll add it to the list of conspiracy theories for the week.”
Legal experts note that the idea of reversing or penalizing such grants—if they existed—would be legally complex. Federal grants to private individuals or organizations typically require an application process, documentation of need, and clear justification for the funding. The notion of bypassing all of that to hand over millions to celebrities would, as one lawyer put it, “leave a paper trail as long as the Pacific Coast Highway.”
Nevertheless, the narrative has gained traction online, boosted by memes and exaggerated commentary. One viral post showed a photoshopped image of Oprah holding a check for $200 million with the caption, “You get a grant! You get a grant! Everybody gets a grant!”
Supporters of the celebrities in question have pushed back, pointing out that all three have long histories of philanthropy and do not need government payouts to support their public stances. “The idea that Oprah Winfrey needs a taxpayer-funded bribe to have an opinion is laughable,” wrote one social media user.
Still, the rumor has tapped into a broader cultural and political tension: the intersection of politics, celebrity influence, and public money. In an era where perception often outweighs fact, a sensational story—true or not—can dominate the news cycle for days.
For now, no official investigation has been announced, no documents have been made public, and no celebrity has confirmed receiving the alleged funds. But the online debate continues to rage, proving once again that in American politics, even the most far-fetched story can become a headline.
