The man who went viral for staying seated and continuing to eat his burrata salad during a security alert at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner has now been identified as Michael Glantz, a senior agent at Creative Artists Agency.
What happened that night at the Washington Hilton?
The incident took place at the Washington Hilton, where guests including Donald Trump, JD Vance and senior cabinet members were quickly evacuated after shots were reported as an armed individual entered the venue.
Amidst the chaos, videos showing Glantz calmly eating even as others took cover were widely circulated.
Why did Michael Glantz stay seated?
In an interview with The New York Times, Glantz explained his reaction: “I’m a New Yorker,” he told the Times. “We live with sirens and constant activity. I wasn’t afraid. Hundreds of Secret Service agents rushing over tables and chairs and I wanted to watch.”
He also drew criticism for his decision not to cover up: “A lot of people were saying, ‘Why didn’t you get on the floor? Everyone else at your table and in the room was on the floor'”
Glantz gave personal reasons for staying put:
“First of all, I have a bad back. I couldn’t get on the floor, and if I got on the floor, they’d have to bring in people to get me off the floor. And No. 2, I’m a hygiene freak. There was no damn way I was going to get in my new tuxedo on the dirty floor of the Hilton. That wasn’t happening.”
How did prominent personalities react to the viral moment?
Journalist Christiane Amanpour confirmed Glantz’s identity on social media, identifying him as her agent and praising his composure.
She wrote: “Calm, collected and continuing through a terrifying crisis, my super cool agent Michael Glantz. Glad everyone got out of that ballroom safely.” She later added that Glantz also represents Wolf Blitzer.
Meanwhile, Brian Stelter also identified him online, noting: “CAA Super Agent Michael Glantz is the man eating the salad in this viral video.”
Who is the suspect in the shooting?
Authorities have taken the suspect, identified as Cole Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, into custody. Investigations are underway to determine the motive for the shooting.
The incident revived memories of the Ronald Reagan assassination attempt, which also took place at the same hotel, and added to the shock surrounding the event.
In the report, he described himself as a “friendly federal assassin” and alluded to complaints related to the Trump administration’s actions.
Officials are also reviewing social media activity and interviewing relatives as part of the ongoing investigation.
