United Kingdom, Dec. 31 -- George Clooney knew Donald Trump "very well" during his early days in Hollywood.

The 64-year-old actor has been an outspoken critic of the US President in recent years - but George actually had a good relationship with the billionaire businessman earlier in his career.

The Hollywood star told Variety: "I knew him very well.

"He used to call me a lot, and he tried to help me get into a hospital once to see a back surgeon. I'd see him out at clubs and at restaurants. He's a big goofball. Well, he was. That all changed."

George believes the US is currently struggling amid Trump's presidency.

The actor explained: "It's a very trying time.

"It can depress you or make you very angry. But you have to find the mos...