Bette Midler and Barbra Streisand lead celebrity reactions to Trump-Biden debate

Bette Midler and Barbra Streisand led the celebrity reactions to this week's Trump-Biden debate.

The divas, and others, took to their social media accounts to express their views after the first presidential debate between Donald Trump and Joe Biden ahead of this year's election.

"All my friends are taking their blood pressure medicine now, preparing for the debate," Bette, 78, wrote on X/Twitter, ahead of the face-off. "I wonder how many TV screens are going to be broken tonight?"

As the televised debate took place, Bette called out 78-year-old Trump's remarks, writing, "My God, the way this f**ker lies. It's just astonishing," and, "Every word out of his mouth is a lie. Every single word."

Meanwhile, Barbra, 82, argued the debate had little to do with governance, writing, "Debates are not governing. They are about televised theatrics. Biden is accomplished at governing. He is experienced and has accomplished a great deal."

Horror writer Stephen King, 76, felt the debate was cheapened politics, writing, "DEBATE NIGHT IN AMERICA! Sweet Jesus! The networks are packaging this as entertainment, like a boxing match, and selling democracy down the river. It's a shame."

Star Wars star Mark Hamill, 72, had low expectations ahead of the event.

"Keeping my expectations low for this debate considering the highlight last time was 'Will you shut up, man?!'" he wrote.

The presidential election will take place on 5 November.