Actress Katherine Heigl is pushing back after critics questioned her decision to attend a charity fundraiser held at Mar-a-Lago. The event, organized to support a dog rescue organization, sparked debate online, but Heigl says the focus should remain on protecting animals rather than politics.

The former “Grey’s Anatomy” star addressed the backlash this week, defending her involvement in the event and emphasizing that the cause was always about animal welfare.

Heigl Defends Her Support For Animal Advocacy

Heigl responded publicly after criticism surfaced regarding her appearance at the charity fundraiser.

“Animals don’t vote. The only room they don’t like is the euthanasia room at a shelter,” Heigl told Page Six in a statement. “They are completely at the mercy of us, and they have no voice of their own.”

She made clear that her participation was tied to a cause she has supported for years.

“This event was about animal advocacy — something that has always been deeply personal to me,” she continued. “Anyone who knows me knows that protecting animals is one of my greatest passions.”

Meanwhile, Heigl urged people to look past political divisions when it comes to protecting animals.

“As a society, we should all come together to protect the voiceless and the innocent,” she added. “This should not be a polarizing issue.”

Mar-A-Lago Fundraiser Raises Millions For Rescue

The charity event, called Wine, Women & Shoes Benefiting Big Dog Ranch Rescue, took place Sunday at President Donald Trump’s Palm Beach, Florida residence.

Organizers later revealed that the fundraiser generated major support for the rescue organization. Big Dog Ranch Rescue shared on Instagram that the event brought in $5.5 million.

The funds will support the organization’s mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need.

Actress Responds Directly To Online Critics

However, the online debate did not stop after Heigl released her statement. Some social media users questioned her presence at the high-profile venue, prompting the actress to answer comments directly on Instagram.

One comment asked, “Who even is she?”

Heigl did not hold back in her response.

“Doesn’t matter. Do you care about animals? If so donate! Time! Money! Attention! Your voice! It doesn’t matter who I am only what I do,” Heigl responded on Instagram.

She also encouraged people to support causes they believe in rather than criticizing others.

“The same goes for you! Animals might not be your thing but I bet you care deeply about something that matters! Do your part! Don’t waste your time scrolling and making comments!” she added.

Heigl’s Move Away From Hollywood

Heigl has largely stepped away from the Hollywood spotlight in recent years. In 2023, she revealed that she moved to Utah after years of working in Los Angeles.

During a television interview at the time, she explained why the change felt necessary.

“I think some people are mountain people, and I think some people are beach people,” Heigl explained. “I’m sort of a mountain person and have always been that way.”

The actress said the move helped her find balance after years in the entertainment industry.

“And my mom realized, because we went out to LA when I was 17 and hustled and hustled for years, right?” Heigl continued. “And I think she realized at a certain point that I needed somewhere to escape to and kind of clear my head, and that grounded me.”

Even as criticism swirls online, Heigl has made it clear that her priority remains the same: advocating for animals that cannot speak for themselves.