Home of the Brave: Kathy Griffin

Kathy Griffin really needs no introduction, but just in case you’ve been living under a rock for the past 25 years. Kathy Griffin is an American actress, comedian, model, writer and producer. We recently had the opportunity to ask Kathy a few questions concerning her views on America  for an interview series entitled, “Home of the Brave.”

Leveled Magazine: What does being an American mean to you?
Kathy Griffin: It means I’m free to say anything I want… and make fun of whomever I want, from Elizabeth Hasselbeck on The View to my friend Anderson Cooper.

LM: Define the American dream.
KG: I’m just a flame-haired Ginger from Oak Park, Illinois, and look at me now. I play casinos all around the country. Oh, and I have my own talk show. That’s the American dream, damn it.

LM: What is one thing about life in this country that has had a significant effect on you, or has shaped you as an individual?
KG: The power of free speech and the funny people who use it. They don’t have a Joan Rivers in Saudi Arabia.

LM: Would you say that we live in the greatest country in the world?
KG: By all means. No contest. Nice try, Belgium.

LM: What would America’s grave say on it?
KG: We ate way too many French fries.

LM: What comes to mind when you think of the American people?
KG: Too many of us don’t believe in gay rights. Let’s fix that.

LM: What will life in this country be like in a hundred years?
KG: Hopefully there will be no more Kardashians on television. But I think it will take that long to get there.

LM: What does patriotism mean to you?
KG: Our armed forces do amazing things for this country. I can’t tell you how much that means to me. I’ve seen it on my many U.S.O. tours. That’s patriotism.

LM: What advice would you give to a younger you about building a life in America?
KG: Don’t worry too much, and when your high school boyfriend turns out to be gay, don’t get upset. You guys will be friends later on in life and laugh about it.