Thousands gathered in San Francisco to honor the late Grateful Dead co-founder Bob Weir, but it was former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s presence that ignited a firestorm on social media.

On Saturday, a public tribute at San Francisco’s Civic Center drew a massive crowd of longtime fans, musicians, and political figures to celebrate Weir, who passed away on Jan. 10 at age 78, as confirmed by a family statement on his Instagram page.

The event featured notable appearances by Joan Baez and Wynonna Judd, alongside Pelosi, an 85-year-old self-described “Deadhead,” who delivered remarks and joined musician John Mayer on stage during a performance of the Grateful Dead song “Ripple,” according to FOX 2 reports.

The issue has sparked debate across social media platforms, with many users questioning Pelosi’s role at the tribute and her behavior during the event. Online criticism quickly mounted over her demeanor and even her wardrobe choices.

Pelosi’s Speech Draws Mixed Reactions

During her speech, Pelosi reflected on Weir’s legacy, though some noticed she stumbled over words at times, Fox News reported. Her remarks included a call to action, urging attendees to participate in the democratic process.

She declared, “You know what he wanted everybody to do? Vote!” as reported from the event. While the sentiment may resonate with some, others online found the political message out of place at a memorial for a cultural icon. Was this the right stage for such a plea?

Pelosi also paid tribute to Weir’s character, saying, “Bobby Weir was not just a magician, musician – a magician too – he was a force of nature.” It’s a glowing remark, no doubt, but social media wasn’t so kind, with some users calling her behavior “bizarre” and questioning her very inclusion as a speaker.

Social Media Backlash Intensifies

The online reaction wasn’t limited to her words or actions on stage. Many took issue with Pelosi’s bright magenta suit, a stark contrast to the sea of black worn by others, prompting one X user to quip, “Nancy Pelosi wearing a very somber magenta on stage at Bob Weir’s funeral.” If the goal was to blend in with mourners, this wardrobe choice missed the mark by a mile.

Others questioned her presence altogether, with another X user asking, “Why is [Nancy] Pelosi speaking at this Bob Weir memorial?” It’s a fair point—while Pelosi’s fandom is well-documented, some felt the event should have focused solely on Weir’s musical peers and family.

Then there were those who speculated on her demeanor, with one X user posting, “Is Nancy Pelosi drunk at the Bob Weir Homecoming?” Such comments, while sharp, reflect a broader frustration with public figures turning personal tributes into platforms for something else.

Weir’s Legacy and Family Statement

Amid the controversy, it’s worth remembering the man at the center of the tribute—Bob Weir, who “transitioned peacefully, surrounded by loved ones,” according to his family’s Instagram statement. They noted his courageous battle with cancer and ultimate passing due to lung issues. His loss is deeply felt by fans worldwide.

Pelosi’s appearance, including her singing and swaying alongside John Mayer, drew further attention, with one X user noting they didn’t expect to see her performing “Ripple” at Weir’s send-off. It’s an image that’s hard to unsee, and for some, hard to justify at a somber occasion.

Critics argue that public figures like Pelosi, who announced her retirement from Congress in 2027 last November, should tread carefully when stepping into cultural moments like this. The risk of overshadowing the event’s purpose—honoring Weir—is real, and many online felt that’s exactly what happened.

Balancing Respect and Relevance

The tribute was meant to celebrate a musical legend, not spark political or personal debates. Yet, Pelosi’s involvement shifted some of the focus, leaving a bitter taste for those who wanted a pure reflection on Weir’s contributions.

Events like these should unite people through shared admiration, not divide them over wardrobe choices or misplaced remarks. While Pelosi’s intent may have been to honor a personal hero, the execution left many questioning if her presence amplified or detracted from Weir’s memory.

In the end, Bob Weir’s legacy as a Grateful Dead icon endures, despite the online chatter surrounding one attendee. Thousands came to pay their respects, and that outpouring of love—from fans to fellow musicians—reminds us why Weir’s music will live on, even if some moments at his tribute missed the right note.