
34 Must-Have Chewy Products For Every Dog Owner
A natural paw balm to protect those precious toe beans from winter salt, summer heat, and even slippery hardwood floors. Especially great for senior dogs who deserve a little extra traction.
Promising review: "We live in a condominium complex that hires snow plowers to do our parking lots and sidewalks. Unfortunately, they salted everything heavily once the initial plowing was finished. Every dog we've had in the 28 years we've lived here starts out their walks so frisky and happy, and five minutes into it, they're lifting paws and stopping due to the salt, which super-cools the ice, and consequently their poor little paws. One of my friends found this product and used it every winter with her dog, and always said how effective it was. So I thought I would buy a tin and try it. Yup! It's like magic! I work a small amount on each pad and in between her toes, and we're good to go! It's a reasonably priced product, and I highly recommend trying it!" —MaryPrice: $15.99+ (originally $16.99+, available in three sizes)
A variety pack of dental chews in fun shapes that'll make your pup think they're getting a treat — meanwhile, their teeth are getting a sneaky little spa day.
Promising review: "My bulldog didn't want me brushing her teeth. The vet said to try these. Now I say 'whimsey,' and my dog runs to get one! She gets one a day and loves them! And she has great teeth! I am SO happy to have found these!!!!" —ChelseaPrice: $34.77+ (originally $38.99+, available in two sizes)
A Dremel nail grinder to finally end the claw-trimming nightmare. No more fear of the dreaded quick — just a smooth, stress-free pawdicure for your pup and no more scratch marks on your arms!
I've tried cheaper versions of nail grinders before, but it took so much longer to trim the nails, and my dog would not stay still long enough. This is exactly what professional groomers use and it's absolutely worth it!Promising review: "I bought another brand of nail grinder that didn't do much for my dog's nails. It would have taken me hours to grind all of his nails. With the Dremel, I did all of them in 10-15 minutes. I love the different length guards and different speed settings. I use the second speed and it grinds the perfect amount off to be able to make sure I don't go too short!" —SaraPrice: $58.90 (originally $59.99)
A bag of Milk-Bone Pill Pouches, because good luck getting your dog to take a pill otherwise. These are like magic — turning medicine time into treat time (and saving you from the spit-it-out-and-stare-at-you routine).
Promising review: "My pittie takes four pills a day. He hated the Greenies Pill Pockets, and I've tried sooo many other ways until I gave up and bought a mini fridge to keep lunch meats for his twice-daily meds. Then I saw these and figured, why not try? OH MY GOSH! He absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVES these treats. So much so that he can watch me put his meds inside them before he eats them; I have both chicken and bacon flavors. I am so grateful for this fast, easy, and large treat that I can put two allergy pills in one and two medications in the other, easily. The treats are very pliable to squeeze around the pills so if I toss it in the air and he misses (rare) I do not worry about the medications getting out. I buy both flavors each month, giving me 50 treats. So at the end of the month, when I am Houdini and making everything fit, it has yet to be a problem because again, they're big enough. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!" —Nikki0Price: $4.49+ (available in four sizes and two flavors)
A set of two lick mats for a brain workout and tasty meal in one. Smear on some peanut butter or yogurt, then freeze it for an extra challenge — aka 15 minutes of uninterrupted peace for you.
Promising review: "We have a dog that gets stressed with fireworks, so every holiday that involves fireworks, we fill this up, freeze it, and she's happy. Be careful leaving them alone with it because my other dog tore it up once the treat was gone." —AlyPrice: $13.99
A Furminator brush that will easily remove enough undercoat fur to build a whole new dog (and prevent it from covering your entire house instead).
Promising review: "This just arrived in the mail and oh my goodness we are in LOVE! My pup is a mutt, mostly German shepherd, Australian shepherd, and husky, so you can imagine the hair on this one! I started brushing and I was absolutely AMAZED at the amount that came off, and how easy it was! Seriously, so easy, and he loved it SO much. It must have felt so good! He has an undercoat, and his fur is super shiny and soft. I was worried that it might pull and tug his hair, or not get all the way to the undercoat, and I was wrong! This doesn't pull or scratch, but it gets the job done! I absolutely recommend it to anyone, even if you don't think your dog is a shedder! Much easier than all of the other brushes I've used as well. I was not happy about the price tag, but the very first use paid for itself!" —LaurenPrice: $31.85+ (originally $37.49+, available in three sizes and three colors)
A Kong puppy tire chew toy to get your baby tired — which is the goal, isn't it? Chew it, tug it, chase it, nap. Repeat.
Promising review: "This was ordered in April 2022 when we first got our puppy. He was 8-weeks-old. He will be 2-years-old in March of this year. It is the ONLY toy that has made it this long, and it's his favorite! He has chewed up every other toy, even other Kong brand toys. Usually, within hours of getting a new toy, it will be ruined. Not this one, though! He is a Frenchie/bully mix and can mess up some toys! So happy this one lasted this long! We have to get another one ASAP!" —ShannonPrice: $7.99+ (available in two sizes)
An enzymatic toothpaste that's highly recommended by reviewers and actually tastes good to your dog. With this, you'll actually get the brushing done without the usual battle — and your dog will have fresh breath to boot!
Promising review: "My dog loves getting his teeth brushed and we owe it all to this toothpaste! We brush his teeth every single night, and he loves this toothpaste. It's like a treat to him. The vanilla mint scent smells sooo good and makes his breath smell amazing. His dental check-ups always get 5 stars from his vet. This toothpaste is an absolute staple for us, and we have a subscription for it. Highly recommend." —AmandaPrice: $11.89 (originally $13.59, available in two sizes and five flavors)
A pack of No-Hide chews that are a safer and healthier option than bleached rawhide bones — and my dogs love them! Perfect for keeping them busy while you try to enjoy a snack without those big, pleading puppy-dog eyes staring you down.
Promising review: "These venison no-hides treats are my dogs' favorites. I had no idea anything like this was even available until someone gave me a package for Christmas. They kept my dogs busy for hours, and the best part is that there is no rawhide in them, just nutritious meat and vegetable ingredients, so you don't have to worry about all the nasty chemicals involved in making rawhide treats. I bought several packages in all the available flavors to have on hand for an occasional special treat. Your dog will love these." —MaryPrice: $10.49+ (available in six flavors and three sizes)
A refillable dog treat dispenser toy you can fill with homemade treats or premade Pupsicle Pops. It's enrichment and snack time rolled into one drool-worthy distraction.
Promising review: "Our Lab mix has always suffered from anxiety, fear, aggression with strangers, and breaks in routine. We ordered this product after seeing several ads on our social media. He LOVES it, and so do we! Super easy to clean and refill, long-lasting, and the treat refills don't smell bad like other dog treats! Our sweet boy recently began to lose mobility in his rear end and gets super upset when he is unable to get around independently; this gives him the comfort he needs to just relax and lie down while enjoying a treat!" —ElizabethPrice: $19.99+ (available in three sizes)
A fun slow feeder, which turns mealtime into a puzzle instead of a two-second inhaling contest. If your dog scarfs down food like they're in an eating competition, this will help them slow down and prevent tummy troubles.
Promising review: "My dachshund is a total scrounge. Typically, she inhales her dinners and does a few 'coughs/sneezes/chokes' immediately after she finishes eating. I was told to buy her a raised food dish and water bowl — so I did that, but the coughing thing continued! I decided to try this specific, purple, slow feeder for her about two weeks ago. SHE WAS LIVID. The slow feeder forces her to eat slower, and it's like a dog food puzzle; she has to think while she eats, lol, not just mindlessly demolishing her dinners. This was an awesome purchase!! She isn't hacking up a lung after she eats anymore! I bought the blue, swirly version of this feeder for my puppy as well. Now she is a FAST eater, I'm surrounded lol." —MichellePrice: $6.79+ (originally $9.99+, available in two sizes)
A package of presoaked tear stain wipes to gently clean away what I call "eye goopies." These are especially great for dogs with white fur so they don't look perpetually sleep-deprived.
Promising review: "I'm very impressed with these pads. A dog who was staying with me for a few weeks arrived with very matted, crusty eyes. I ordered and received the eye pads, used them 2x daily, and they cleared up! She loved it!" —AngelPrice: $11 (originally $12.99)
A pack of four Benebone chews, because some dogs treat furniture like a chew toy. These will keep even the most determined gnawers entertained for hours.
Promising review: "My dogs are chewers and one is a HEAVY chewer. These are strong enough for her to chew on for a few weeks and not a few hours or days. All three of the dogs love them, and they all smell like a different flavor. I will be buying more." —CindyPrice: $24.95+ (available in four sizes)
A bright harness with front and back attachments, reflective stitching, and a handle for when (not if) your dog gets too excited about a squirrel.
Promising review: "We purposely bought another one for our new puppy. We love these harnesses as they have the grab handle on top, which has been so handy in many ways. They are also reflective, so they glow really well when car lights or flashlights shine on them." —DeannaPrice: $25.47+ (originally $29.99, available in five sizes and seven colors)
An adorable raincoat to convince your stubborn pup that yes, they do have to potty even in the rain, and to save you from the post-walk towel dry. Bonus: They'll look extra cute while staying dry!
Promising review: "So cute, and great functionally! Kept my dog dry during our last walk through heavy rain. The hood is a bit bigger than my dog needs; it falls into her eyes sometimes, but it's an easily solved problem and works wonderfully otherwise!" —JackyPrice: $12.99+ (available in seven sizes, two colors, and with or without a personalization option)
An ultra-tough rubber ball that laughs in the face of aggressive chewers. It bounces, it rolls, it keeps your dog busy, and your shoes safe from becoming their next chew toy.
Promising review: "My new German short-haired pointer puppy, 'The Destroyer,' is a chewer when she is bored. Being no strangers to GSPs, it has always been hard to find a ball that will last. The last tennis ball, I think she made about 1,000 tiny pieces out of it! These balls seem to be indestructible, have some weight to them, and are good for throwing. The dogs love them!!" —MPrice: $7.64+ (originally $14.99, available in two sizes)
An LED light-up collar to keep your dog visible and safe, whether you're on an evening walk or letting them run wild in the backyard. I love these for my dogs when we go on walks in the dark.
Promising review: "These things are so bright, they're amazing. Our dogs run loose, supervised, around our property, and you can see the dogs from hundreds of feet away. Three dogs, three different colors, it's so easy to keep track of them and know when to call them back if they get too far. We only use them when we are walking our property with the dogs, but we go out quite a few times before I recharge them." —JustinPrice: $18.99+ (originally $24.99, available in four sizes and seven colors)
A large rubber ball by Kong with a surprise tennis ball hiding inside to keep high-energy dogs active, curious, and too busy to redecorate your living room with plushie fluff.
Promising review: "My American bully goes through a ridiculous amount of toys that have barely lasted 10 minutes. Several horse toys that were trainer recommendations have not survived. This ball is the exception, and though my dog has punctured it and reduced the squeaker capabilities, it still remains intact, interesting, and play-worthy. It has been two weeks of supervised play since our purchase, and he has still not opened it up." —AngelaPrice: $14.99+ (originally $15.99+, available in two sizes)
A calming fuzzy donut bed so cozy you'll wish it came in human size. Bonus: It's machine washable for when they inevitably track dirt into it.
Promising review: "We purchased this bed after seeing the one our daughter bought for her fur baby. We are so glad we did! This is the perfect bed for our mini-Aussie, who struggles with a little anxiety at times. This bed is so soft that it seems to cuddle him when he's in it. While he does have other beds to use, this is his preferred choice, especially during thunderstorms. I was a little concerned with the light color, but I've found it is really easy to disassemble and wash. Just make sure that you don't use fabric softener, it doesn't need it, and it can alter the wonderful fabric." —KarenPrice: $15.99+ (available in six sizes and 10 colors)
A volcano and dinosaur toy that doubles as a fun puzzle — ideal for dogs who need enrichment and love digging out hidden treasures (without destroying your couch cushions).
Promising review: "My dog is obsessed with this toy! Whether there are treats in it or not, he has so much fun sniffing around and pulling the dinosaurs out. He self-entertains with it, and we play with it together. His favorite game is getting all the dinosaurs out, bringing me the volcano, and retrieving them for me to put back. I wish the fabric were a little stronger (1-1/2-year-old retriever and soft fabric do not mix well). But somehow, he has managed not to completely tear it apart! Either way, we will be getting more of this style of toy!" —SarahPrice: $14.99
A Kong dog toy that is a classic for a reason — an absolute must-have that I always have stuffed and ready to go in the freezer. Perfect for solo entertainment while you sneak out of the house.
Promising review: "I have a 14-year-old Akita mix that devours every toy we have gotten him. He never stops tearing them apart, so most only last less than a day. In 14 years, we have bought four large Kongs, which he gets nightly. That is a record none can beat. Plus, no nylon shards in your dog's gut." —KathyPrice: $7.99+ (originally $8.99+, available in six sizes)
An enzymatic spray to erase the inevitable "oops" moments. Whether it's a puppy accident or a senior slip-up, this stuff is a lifesaver. Even when my dogs go months or years without an accident, it still happens, and I wish I still had a bottle on hand.
Promising review: "I have used this product for years — puppies, adult dogs, senior dogs, healthy and ailing, and I would not be without it. Accidents happen, and when they do, this product removes the evidence — no smell, no stain." —ConniePrice: $13.55+ (originally $15.99+, available in two sizes)
A squeaky stuffed Lamb Chop toy that dogs of all ages are downright obsessed with. Consider it the VIP of plushies that's always booked for cuddling and playtime.
Promising review: "We have a few of these now. I have the original one put away for safekeeping. So far, even our destructive dog has been very gentle with both, and currently, our 5-year-old dog got his first little Lamb Chop as a tiny puppy, and he has never been destructive. We got our youngest Yorkie at about 4-months-old instead of 8-weeks-old, and he had some bad habits that he developed before he came to us. So far, this is the first toy he has not chewed on for weeks already, and he's sleeping with it daily." —KimberlyPrice: $3.99+ (originally $5.39+, available in three sizes)
A paw cleaner so your pup can live their best muddy life outside without turning your floors and furniture into a disaster zone.
Promising review: "This MudBuster is phenomenal! Highly recommend to all my dog lovers. Mud season is upon us here in WI, and it is in full force with my 9-month-old yellow Lab! He loves to be outside no matter the weather. We bought the medium and it is just the right size for our pup. He doesn't seem to mind it either, we just have him give us a shake and praise him the whole time we're cleaning his paws with the MudBuster. Warm water and the tiniest amount of Dawn dish soap is all we use." —mudbusterPrice: $15+ (available in three sizes and three colors)
A calming supplement to help anxious dogs chill through fireworks, thunderstorms, or trips to the vet. I use them to keep my pups from being too ~enthusiastic~ when family comes to visit.
Promising review: "I have one dog (Lab mix, 9 years old, 85 pounds) who is generally pretty chill except he is TERRIFIED of thunderstorms and fireworks. Another of my dogs (Lab-AmStaff mix, 6 years old, 65 pounds) gets nervous about storms, and regular rain and fireworks and the frequent artillery fire at the nearby military base and the construction work going on outside my neighborhood. And I have a new dog (AmStaff mix, 1 year, 60 pounds), recently adopted from a shelter and spayed just before she came home. This really seems to help all of them. I do have prescriptions from the vet for all three of them, but I prefer not to drug them unless it's the 4th of July or the weather forecast is for severe storms for several hours or something else extreme. For regular day-to-day use, these are great. For my two dogs (60 and 65 pounds) who get it daily, I give one with breakfast and one in the evening. For my dog, who gets it situationally (85 pounds), I give him two as soon as I know there's a problem, and then will give one more at a time if it's an ongoing thing." —JenniferPrice: $4.97+ (available in six sizes and two flavors)
A water additive that makes keeping your pup's breath fresh and teeth clean as easy as filling their drinking bowl. If your dog treats a toothbrush like a medieval torture device, this is a hassle-free way to fight plaque between professional cleanings.
Promising review: "Great dental report from vet for my 9-year-old dog. Her teeth look very clean. During her last check-up, they discussed dental cleaning due to her plaque and tartar. This made a huge difference." —PilarPrice: $7.99+ (available in two sizes)
An oatmeal and aloe shampoo to soothe irritated and sensitive skin, leaving them soft, smooth, and extra snuggly.
Promising review: "I have a pit bull/American Eskimo mix, and he was having some issues with dry skin and red blotchy rashes for the longest time. We couldn't figure out what was causing it, but we were desperate to find a solution. We were given this recommendation for dog shampoo and tried it once, and have never used anything else since. It's very creamy and lathers nicely, he doesn't try to lick it off like he did the other brands, and he actually gets excited for bath time now. He has had no more rashes, he smells great, and his fur feels smoother than ever! I absolutely love this product and bought the puppy one for my youngest fur baby, who is just about to turn a year old. She is a Pomeranian/pug, and it does wonders for her thick, long fur. 100% recommended!!" —KrissyPrice: $17.99+ (originally $18.99+, available in two sizes)
An elevated dog feeder with options of three different heights, so it can grow with them. Perfect for large dogs, senior pups, or those with neck issues, this feeder helps them eat comfortably. Plus, it's like a fancy little dining set for your dog — because who says they shouldn't have a bit of luxury at mealtime?
I bought this one for my mom's German shepherd mix after he started having neck pain and we wanted to raise up his bowls so he wouldn't keep straining his neck. He loves it!Promising review: "My senior Lab of 15 years has no trouble eating out of the highest setting. Makes it very easy for him to eat. Our arms were getting tired holding up his food. Not only that, but bending over to eat on his wobbly legs, he would lose his balance and get food all over the place! Also, a great price. Worth every penny." —GeraldPrice: $17.23 (originally $30.95)
A package of freeze-dried beef liver treats that turn even the most stubborn pup into a perfectly trained angel — at least while the container is open. These high-value goodies have a magical way of making "sit," "stay," and "please stop barking at the mailman" actually work.
Promising review: "At first, Willow wasn't quite sure about these freeze-dried beef liver treats. The texture gave her a moment of 'paws' (pun intended). But once she took that first crunchy bite, it was game over — she's absolutely hooked! Now, these treats are her go-to favorite. She'll sit, stay, and maybe even do a backflip if it means getting one. The 14-ounce tub is the perfect size to keep her tail wagging without running out too soon. If your pup needs a high-value treat to bring out their inner superstar, these are a must-try! Willow gives them two paws up!" —KathyPrice: $4.99+ (originally $5.99+, available in six sizes)
A scientist-themed strategy game if you're convinced your pet has secret plans for world domination. Now, they can channel their genius into unlocking treats instead of plotting against your furniture.
Promising review: "I got this for my dog for a Christmas present. She loves it, but so does my cat! I put it out the other day while no one was home but the cats. When we got home, it was empty, so I knew the cats figured it out. Today, I got her on video playing with it. The only thing I would like to see improved is maybe suction cups on the bottom so that when the dog uses it, it won't flip over as easily. Otherwise, we love it, and the price was great! Seems sturdy too, like it won't just fall apart. Thank you!" —WendyPrice: $9.45 (originally $20.99)
A giggle ball which makes a funny noise as it rolls around, with no batteries, no complicated parts — just pure, tail-wagging fun. If your dog loves chasing things and enjoys a little mystery, this toy's quirky sound will have them pouncing, pawing, and trying to figure out how it's making that noise.
Depending on your dog's size and the strength of their chew, they can potentially chew through this hard plastic, so keep an eye on their playtime!Promising review: "When Wayne first heard the noise this ball made, he wasn't sure about it, but it quickly became his favorite toy!!! If he hears it in his sleep, he immediately jumps up and is ready to play! Wayne is part pit and a super chewer, and he has destroyed every toy we have gotten for him, most within minutes. He has had his ball for six months, and he plays with it daily. He can get it in his mouth, but he can't chew on it. It shoots out across the floor, and he's off to chase it again. We love to take it to the basement where he can just go nuts and crash into everything with it, or chase it at the dog park. If I could give this one 10 stars, I would!!! It was totally worth the money!!! I ordered a second one for a friend whose dog has destroyed all her toys. Hoping it will work as well for her, because every dog needs at least one toy that doesn't immediately break!" —LoriPrice: $14.99
A de-skunking shampoo you'll be ridiculously grateful for if your dog ever meets a striped surprise. Trust — this belongs in your emergency kit, even if you think you'll never need it.
My mom's dog got skunked three times last year (of course, always at night when the groomers and stores are closed), and she'd call me desperately asking what to do! This is another one I recommend buying before you need it!Promising review: "This has become a staple in our house since our golden has had for skunk encounters this summer. In our experience, it works best the sooner you can get your dog washed! It sometimes takes a couple of washes, but this shampoo works great." —CarolynPrice: $11.75 (originally $13.99)
A stuffed toy with a realistic-feeling heartbeat to soothe anxious pups. It's especially helpful for crate training, new rescues, or dogs who hate being home alone.
Promising review: "I love, love, love this Snuggle Puppy! It is so cute, but the beating 'heart' and heat packs work great. While not a complete cure for my dog's newly found anxiety, he helped drastically! It has definitely helped keep him calm the majority of our time away from him. I consider this a win! I highly recommend it for a pup with anxiety." —JustinePrice: $39.95 (originally $49.99, available in four colors)
A knot tug that comes in an extra-large and colossal size for pups who don't know their own strength. It's made for epic tug-of-war battles and proving once and for all who runs the house.
Promising review: "My young greyhound mix dog loves this tug toy. She hasn't been able to destroy it. When we are not tugging together, she is running around tossing it in the air and catching it. She is such a happy girl." —SeniorDogMomPrice: $4.49+ (available in five sizes and assorted colors, chosen for you by Chewy)

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- Yahoo
Dustin Lance Black, Sean Penn Hit Back as Navy Ship Is Stripped of Harvey Milk's Name: 'These Guys Are Idiots' (Exclusive)
Dustin Lance Black and Sean Penn, who won Academy Awards for writing and starring in the 2008 Harvey Milk biopic Milk, are speaking out on orders from U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to remove the name of the gay rights activist and late San Francisco Supervisor from a Navy ship. 'This is yet another move to distract and to fuel the culture wars that create division,' Black, 50, says in a phone call with The Hollywood Reporter. 'It's meant to get us to react in ways that are self-centered so that we are further distanced from our brothers and sisters in equally important civil rights fights in this country. It's divide and conquer.' More from The Hollywood Reporter Nick Offerman Slams Anti-Gay 'Parks & Recreation' Meme: "Dumb F***" Ariana Grande, Pedro Pascal, Sabrina Carpenter Sign Open Letter Supporting Federal Funding for LGBTQ Youth Suicide Prevention 'The History of Sound' Review: Paul Mescal and Josh O'Connor Bring Aching Poignancy to Restrained but Heartfelt Queer Love Story Adds Penn, 64, in an email to THR: 'I've never before seen a Secretary of Defense so aggressively demote himself to the rank of Chief PETTY Officer.' News of the renaming of the USNS Harvey Milk, christened in San Diego in 2021, came through the leak of an internal memo on Tuesday. The Pentagon's chief spokesperson later confirmed that the renaming 'will be announced after internal reviews are complete.' Issued by Navy secretary John Phelan, the memo stated other potential ships currently being reviewed for renaming include ones bearing the monickers of civil rights icons like Thurgood Marshall, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Harriet Tubman and Cesar Chavez. 'Secretary Hegseth is committed to ensuring that the names attached to all DOD installations and assets are reflective of the commander in chief's priorities, our nation's history and the warrior ethos,' the Pentagon said in a statement. 'These guys are idiots,' Black responds. 'Pete Hegseth does not seem like a smart man, a wise man, a knowledgeable man. He seems small and petty. I would love to introduce him to some LGBTQ folks who are warriors who have had to be warriors our entire life just to live our lives openly as who we are.' Black shot to international attention after Milk, helmed by Gus Van Sant, became a critical and commercial darling, winning two Academy Awards — one for Black and one for Sean Penn, who played the title character. The film begins with Milk's arrival in San Francisco, tracing his political ascendancy as the first out gay man to be elected to public office before being tragically assassinated, along with Mayor George Moscone, by city supervisor Dan White in 1978. White was found guilty of two counts of voluntary manslaughter and served only five years in prison before being released. 'There's a lot that Harvey did before my film fades in,' Black tells THR. 'He worked on Wall Street. He worked on Broadway. He was a school teacher and was in the Navy right here in California. Harvey always excelled at every single thing he did, including his work in the Navy.' Says Black, 'Harvey said repeatedly, 'This is not about ego, this is about the 'us'-es.' And when he talked about the 'us'-es, it wasn't just gay people. It was racial minorities, ethnic minorities, people who didn't speak English, seniors who couldn't afford rent in the city that they grew up in and are finding themselves homeless at an old age. Union workers, most importantly, who couldn't afford to feed their children and needed a living wage. These were the 'us'-es. This was the coalition.' 'Harvey Milk is an icon, a civil rights icon, and for good reason,' Black continues. 'That's not going to change. Renaming a ship isn't going to change that. If people are pissed off, good, be pissed off — but take the appropriate action. Do what Harvey Milk had said we need to do, and it's about bringing back together the coalition of the 'us'-es that helps move the pendulum of progress forward. Stop the infighting and lock arms again. That's what Harvey would say.' Best of The Hollywood Reporter 13 of Tom Cruise's Most Jaw-Dropping Stunts Hollywood Stars Who Are One Award Away From an EGOT 'The Goonies' Cast, Then and Now


The Hill
04-06-2025
- The Hill
Sean Penn dubs Hegseth ‘Chief Petty Officer' for effort to strip Harvey Milk's name from Navy ship
Sean Penn, who played Harvey Milk on the big screen, is ripping Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for reportedly ordering the Navy to strip an oil ship of its name honoring the gay rights activist. 'I've never before seen a Secretary of Defense so aggressively demote himself to the rank of Chief PETTY Officer,' Penn said in a Wednesday statement to The Hollywood Reporter. According to a memorandum from the Office of the Secretary of the Navy stated that plans were in the works to rename the oiler USNS Harvey Milk. 'Secretary Hegseth is committed to ensuring that the names attached to all DOD installations and assets are reflective of the Commander-in-Chief's priorities, our nation's history, and the warrior ethos,' chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a statement about the move, which pointedly came at the beginning of Pride Month. 'Any potential renaming(s) will be announced after internal reviews are complete,' Parnell said. Penn won an Academy Award for taking on the title role in the 2008 film 'Milk.' The first openly gay man to be elected to public office in California when he became a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, Milk was assassinated in 1978. Screenwriter Dustin Lance Black, who also took home an Oscar for his work on 'Milk,' called Hegseth's order 'yet another move to distract and to fuel the culture wars that create division.' Calling Milk a 'civil rights icon,' Black told The Hollywood Reporter, 'That's not going to change. Renaming a ship isn't going to change that.' 'These guys are idiots,' the scribe said, adding that Hegseth 'does not seem like a smart man, a wise man, a knowledgeable man. He seems small and petty.' 'I would love to introduce him to some LGBTQ folks who are warriors who have had to be warriors our entire life just to live our lives openly as who we are,' Black said.