10 Famous Stars Who Spoke Against Hollywood’s Wealth Obsession

When it comes to wealth, many celebrities can seem out of touch. Yet, some have been outspoken about the excesses in their industry, calling out their peers for prioritizing money over authenticity or values. Whether it’s excessive merchandising, outrageous ticket prices, or unbalanced priorities, these public figures have chosen to voice their concerns.

Here’s a look at 10 times celebrities called out other stars for greed and excess.

1. Tina Fey

During a conversation with Amy Poehler on the Good Hang podcast, Tina Fey shared her skepticism about the obsession with side hustles among the wealthy. When asked why she didn’t have a glasses line, she quipped, “I don’t get excited about money if I’m safe. If I have enough to live comfortably, I just don’t understand why rich people need a side gig for extra cash.” She added, “I have a problem with those who already have millions and still find ways to squeeze more out of people.”

2. Billie Eilish

Instagram | billboard | Billie Eilish, in a 2024 Billboard interview, pointed out the music industry’s problematic focus on quantitative results.

Billie Eilish has been vocal about the industry’s obsession with excessive merchandise and vinyl releases designed solely to boost sales. In a 2024 interview with Billboard, Billie expressed frustration, saying, “It’s incredibly wasteful, and it’s upsetting to see such a focus on numbers instead of sustainability.”

She called out artists who release multiple versions of albums just to drive up sales, without considering the environmental impact or the ethical ramifications of their choices.

3. Mindy Cohn

In a 2024 interview with SiriusXM, Mindy Cohn revealed that a planned “The Facts of Life” reboot fell apart because of one greedy cast member. She explained how a co-star tried to negotiate a separate spinoff deal behind the group’s back. This act of selfishness shattered what had been a long-standing friendship among the cast, leaving the reunion project in tatters.

4. Tyra Banks

Tyra Banks has always been known for her careful approach to finances. In a 2018 interview with Money, she revealed that she’d been a saver since childhood. While other models spent lavishly on designer clothes, Tyra was investing in real estate and saving for her future. “I bought my first house at 20 years old,” she shared, “and I was determined not to squander my success.”

5. Ed Begley Jr.

In 2015, actor Ed Begley Jr. reflected on growing up with a father who worked hard but never sought fame. He shared that seeing wealthy movie stars left him with little desire for excess. “I met so many celebrities with huge homes and all the material things, and none of them seemed any happier than us,” Ed remarked. His experience served as a reminder that wealth doesn’t always equate to happiness.

6. Robert Smith

The Cure’s Robert Smith made headlines in 2024 when he publicly called out Ticketmaster for charging excessive fees on concert tickets. He explained that he was shocked by the profits being made, noting, “If we really believed in our music, we wouldn’t need to squeeze every last dollar out of our fans. We’d want people to come back.” His stance inspired fellow artists, including Neil Young, to follow suit and question the ethics of “dynamic pricing.”

7. Neil Young

Neil Young was another artist who took action against Ticketmaster’s pricey ticket schemes. In a 2025 statement, he criticized the introduction of Platinum tickets, which inflated ticket prices for some fans. “It didn’t feel right to profit from fans in that way,” he said, and decided to scrap the premium tickets for his shows, offering more affordable options to his fans.

8. Daniel Craig

Instagram | whatsdanielwearing | “Dying rich is a failure,” Daniel Craig declared in an interview with Candis Magazine.

In a 2021 interview with Candis Magazine, Daniel Craig reflected on wealth and inheritance. He remarked, “If you die rich, you’ve failed. Andrew Carnegie gave away billions during his lifetime, and that’s how we should all approach wealth.” Craig’s philosophy of giving away wealth rather than leaving it to heirs highlighted his distaste for hoarding money.

9. Julia Fox

In 2023, actress and model Julia Fox gave followers a tour of her “underwhelming” apartment on TikTok, emphasizing her belief in transparency over excessive displays of wealth. “I don’t need $30 million,” she stated in response to critics, “What does anyone need that much money for? I live just fine without it.” Her minimalistic approach to wealth, especially in an industry where excess is the norm, sparked conversation about the need for more modest living.

10. Nick Cannon

Nick Cannon shared his thoughts on the extravagant lifestyles of the rich and famous. During an interview about hosting the reboot of “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous,” he joked about the absurdity of gold toilet seats and similar luxuries. “I can’t take it seriously when people act like that. It’s just too much. People need to lighten up and stop taking themselves so seriously,” he said.

Financial success plays a big role in the entertainment industry. However, some celebrities believe there’s a limit to what feels reasonable. Unnecessary side hustles, excessive ticket prices, and over-the-top displays of wealth often cross that line. Not every star agrees that more money equals more happiness. Some even speak out—sometimes ruffling a few feathers in the process.