Former President George W. Bush unexpectedly became the star of President Donald Trump’s inauguration ceremony on January 20, as his animated facial expressions, from playful smirks to raised eyebrows, went viral online. At 78, Bush proved he could still grab attention with his personality, leaving viewers, including his family, laughing.
His daughter, Jenna Bush Hager, offered some insight into the viral moment, noting that her father’s expressions have been a point of chatter in their family group chat. She humorously hinted that he must have been reacting to something, or someone, that caught his eye during the ceremony.
George W. Bush’s daughter Jenna Bush Hager opens up on the recent viral memes
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Jenna jokingly suggested that her father was not the only one to blame for his funny faces. Seated next to him during the event was former President Barack Obama, whom Bush Hager lightheartedly called a bad influence.
Both ex-presidents seemed to share an admirable friendliness, turning the formal event into a moment of unexpected amusement. Obama joked during an interview afterward that Bush just barely behaved during the ceremony; Jenna even gushed about their relationship, saying she loved when they were together.
Fans react to George W. Bush’s viral video
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The internet was buzzing with reactions to Bush’s facial expressions while interacting with Obama at the inauguration. Many shared how the videos brought a smile to their faces, with some calling the moment the highlight of the day. “George W. Bush and Barry have a long history well before 2008. They’re family,” someone explained.
Another added that they would love to see them try different restaurants together on a TV show. “Thanks, George and Barack, for making me smile on a grim day,” they added. The wholesome clips also incited critics, who spoke against their informal behavior and suspicious friendship. “Imagine telling an Obama supporter in 2008 that George W. Bush and Obama will be deep state besties,” they said.