Hollywood Actresses Who Are Anti-Israel

The intersection of entertainment and geopolitics has become increasingly visible as numerous leading Hollywood actresses voice strong criticism of Israeli policies. From signing open letters demanding a ceasefire to participating in boycotts of Israeli cultural institutions, these figures have leveraged their platforms to advocate for Palestinian rights. Their actions range from social media activism and attending protests to facing professional consequences for their outspoken stances. This list highlights the actresses who have taken significant public positions that challenge the actions of the Israeli government.

Susan Sarandon

The Academy Award-winning actress has been a vocal critic of Israeli policies for decades, often participating in protests and rallies supporting Palestinian rights. In late 2023, she was dropped by her talent agency, UTA, after making controversial remarks at a pro-Palestine rally in New York City. Sarandon has consistently described the situation in Gaza as a humanitarian catastrophe and has called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire. Despite the professional backlash, she remains steadfast in her activism, frequently sharing information about the conflict on her social media platforms.

Melissa Barrera

Best known for her role in the Scream franchise, Barrera was fired from the seventh installment of the series in late 2023 due to her social media posts concerning the conflict. She described the Israeli military campaign in Gaza as “genocide” and “ethnic cleansing,” statements that the production company deemed antisemitic. Barrera defended her comments, stating that she would continue to speak out for those who have no voice and advocating for Palestinian liberation. Her dismissal sparked a significant debate within Hollywood regarding free speech and the boundaries of political expression for actors.

Cynthia Nixon

The Sex and the City star has been an active organizer and participant in protests calling for a ceasefire, including joining a hunger strike outside the White House in late 2023. As a mother of Jewish children, Nixon has emphasized that her criticism is directed at the Israeli government’s policies rather than the Jewish people. She has signed multiple open letters urging the US government to halt military aid to Israel and has spoken passionately at rallies about the civilian toll in Gaza. Her activism is deeply rooted in her progressive political work and her stance against what she terms “collective punishment” of Palestinians.

Hunter Schafer

The Euphoria actress made headlines in early 2024 when she was arrested during a pro-Palestine protest at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City. Schafer appeared wearing a “Ceasefire Now” t-shirt and joined members of Jewish Voice for Peace in disrupting a taping of Late Night with Seth Meyers featuring President Joe Biden. She has been vocal about her support for Palestinian liberation and has used her platform to amplify calls for an end to the bombardment of Gaza. Her willingness to face legal consequences highlighted the intensity of her commitment to the cause.

Nicola Coughlan

The Bridgerton star has been one of the most consistent celebrity voices advocating for Palestinian rights, notably wearing an Artists4Ceasefire pin during her press tour for the show’s third season. Coughlan spearheaded a fundraising campaign for the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, raising over $2 million to provide medical aid and supplies to Gaza. She has stated that she was warned her activism could negatively impact her career but felt a moral imperative to speak out against the violence. Her social media channels are frequently updated with resources and calls to action regarding the humanitarian crisis.

Jenna Ortega

Following the firing of her co-star Melissa Barrera, reports emerged that Ortega exited the Scream franchise in solidarity, although official statements cited scheduling conflicts. Ortega has a history of supporting the Palestinian cause, having shared links to donations for Gaza and posted “Decolonize Palestine” on her social media accounts prior to the 2023 escalation. She signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter urging President Biden to facilitate an end to the hostilities. Her quiet but firm stance has made her a notable figure among young Hollywood stars critical of the status quo.

Angelina Jolie

As a former Special Envoy for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Jolie issued a strong statement condemning the airstrikes on Gaza, referring to the enclave as a “mass grave.” She criticized world leaders for their complicity in preventing a ceasefire and blocking humanitarian aid, arguing that these actions violated international law. Her comments drew sharp rebukes from Israeli officials but resonated with humanitarian groups highlighting the plight of civilians. Jolie has continued to focus her advocacy on the displacement and suffering of families in the region.

Emma Watson

The Harry Potter actress sparked a diplomatic row in 2022 when she reposted an image on Instagram featuring a Palestinian flag and the slogan “Solidarity is a verb.” The post drew immediate condemnation from Israeli officials, who accused her of antisemitism, while Palestinian activists praised her support. Watson has maintained her stance, signing subsequent letters calling for a ceasefire and protection of Palestinian film workers. Her activism aligns with her broader work on intersectional feminism and social justice.

Miriam Margolyes

The British-Australian actress, known for her role as Professor Sprout in Harry Potter, has been fiercely critical of Israel, releasing a video in 2024 where she stated she was “ashamed” of the country’s actions. As a Jewish woman, she argued that the military campaign in Gaza had betrayed the compassionate values of her faith and called on Jews worldwide to “scream for a ceasefire.” Margolyes has described the situation as “genocidal” and has not shied away from using strong language to condemn the Israeli government. Her outspoken nature has made her a polarizing but influential voice in the UK and Hollywood.

Lena Headey

Best known as Cersei Lannister in Game of Thrones, Headey has been a vocal supporter of South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. She participated in a video series reading the formal charges filed against Israel, helping to publicize the legal arguments to a broader audience. Headey has frequently posted “Free Palestine” on her social media and signed open letters demanding an arms embargo. Her activism extends to field visits with refugee organizations, giving her a first-hand perspective on displacement issues.

Maisie Williams

Headey’s co-star, known for playing Arya Stark, has also taken a firm stance, participating in the “Cinema for Gaza” auction to raise funds for medical aid. Williams visited Palestinian refugees in Greece in previous years and has consistently used her platform to advocate for their right to return and self-determination. She signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and has shared numerous posts highlighting the famine and destruction in Gaza. Her support is part of a broader commitment to various social and environmental causes.

Emma Stone

In a significant move in 2025, the two-time Oscar winner signed a pledge to boycott Israeli film institutions implicated in “whitewashing” the occupation. Stone’s name appeared alongside thousands of other film workers on a list refusing to work with state-backed Israeli cultural bodies. This action marked a shift from general calls for peace to targeted economic and cultural pressure on the Israeli state. Her participation added significant mainstream weight to the cultural boycott movement within Hollywood.

Cate Blanchett

As a Goodwill Ambassador for the UNHCR, Blanchett engaged in a poignant address to the European Parliament where she called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. She signed the Artists4Ceasefire open letter and has worn the symbolic red pin on red carpets to keep the issue in the spotlight. Blanchett has focused her advocacy on the protection of refugees and the “agonizing” loss of life in Gaza, urging the international community to act. Her approach combines high-level diplomatic advocacy with public gestures of solidarity.

Tilda Swinton

The acclaimed actress has been a long-time critic of Israeli policy and was a prominent signatory of the 2025 boycott pledge against Israeli film institutions. Swinton also signed a letter in late 2023 warning against “McCarthyist” repression of pro-Palestine voices in the arts sector. She has consistently supported Palestinian filmmakers and has called for an end to the blockade of Gaza. Swinton’s activism is well-regarded in the independent film community, where she has rallied support for cultural boycotts.

Olivia Colman

The Oscar-winning British actress joined the list of high-profile figures signing the pledge to boycott Israeli cultural institutions in 2025. Colman has also been a signatory to open letters addressed to the UK government, demanding a halt to arms sales to Israel. She has expressed deep concern over the humanitarian toll on children in Gaza and has supported fundraising efforts for medical relief. Her involvement signals a growing willingness among established British-Hollywood stars to take controversial stances on the issue.

Viola Davis

The EGOT winner added her name to the Artists4Ceasefire letter sent to President Biden, urging an immediate de-escalation of violence. Davis has used her social media to share posts from humanitarian organizations like Doctors Without Borders regarding the crisis in Gaza. While less vocal in interviews than some peers, her signature on high-profile demands for a ceasefire places her in opposition to the US administration’s initial unconditional support. Her support lends credibility to the movement given her status as an industry heavyweight.

Lupita Nyong’o

Nyong’o was among the initial group of celebrities to sign the Artists4Ceasefire open letter in October 2023, calling for an end to the bombing of Gaza. She has shared resources on the humanitarian crisis and emphasized the need to protect civilian lives on both sides, while specifically criticizing the scale of the Israeli response. The actress has also supported initiatives to amplify Palestinian voices in cinema. Her advocacy aligns with her history of supporting human rights and social justice causes globally.

Florence Pugh

The Dune: Part Two and Black Widow star signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and has posted about the conflict on her Instagram stories. Pugh has shared appeals for medical aid to Gaza and highlighted the destruction of healthcare infrastructure in the besieged strip. She faced some backlash from fans for not speaking out sooner but has since maintained a consistent position calling for peace and aid access. Her involvement appeals to a younger demographic of fans who are increasingly politically active.

Kristen Stewart

Stewart signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and has been photographed attending independent fundraisers for Gaza relief. The actress, known for her roles in Twilight and Spencer, has expressed solidarity with Palestinian artists and filmmakers facing censorship. She has actively supported the call for the US to stop arming Israel, aligning herself with the more progressive wing of Hollywood. Her stance is consistent with her career trajectory towards politically conscious independent cinema.

Jessica Chastain

Chastain has been a vocal advocate for a ceasefire, signing the Artists4Ceasefire letter and frequently posting about the conflict on social media. She has shared videos and reports detailing the suffering of children in Gaza, calling for immediate humanitarian intervention. In July 2024, she famously interrupted a red carpet interview to direct attention to the “genocide” occurring in Palestine. Her willingness to confront the issue directly has made her a leading voice among A-list actresses.

Rachel McAdams

The Mean Girls and Notebook actress signed the Artists4Ceasefire open letter, joining her colleagues in urging the Biden administration to intervene. McAdams has generally kept a low profile regarding political issues but chose to lend her name to this specific cause due to the humanitarian scale of the crisis. Her participation highlights how the call for a ceasefire has crossed into the mainstream of Hollywood talent. She has supported relief funds helping families displaced by the conflict.

America Ferrera

Ferrera, an actress and director known for Barbie and Ugly Betty, signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and has been active in amplifying calls for peace. She has used her platform, which often focuses on social justice and Latino rights, to draw parallels with the struggle for Palestinian rights. Ferrera has urged her followers to contact their representatives to demand a ceasefire and the entry of humanitarian aid. Her advocacy is part of a broader intersectional approach to human rights.

Quinta Brunson

The creator and star of Abbott Elementary signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter, adding her influential voice to the movement. Brunson has been careful but clear in her support for an end to the violence, using her visibility to support humanitarian appeals. She has faced pressure from various sides of the political spectrum but has maintained her signature on calls for de-escalation. Her involvement is significant given her current prominence in the television landscape.

Rosario Dawson

Dawson has been a consistent activist for years and signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter immediately following the escalation in 2023. She has attended protests in Washington D.C. and New York calling for a free Palestine and an end to US military aid to Israel. Dawson often shares content from Palestinian journalists and activists, amplifying on-the-ground perspectives. Her political activism is a core part of her public persona, and she has not shied away from the “anti-Israel” label used by her critics.

Sandra Oh

The Killing Eve and Grey’s Anatomy star signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and has participated in readings of the South African genocide case against Israel. Oh has been vocal about the role of artists in speaking truth to power and has refused to be silent about the civilian death toll in Gaza. She has supported Canadian and international efforts to impose an arms embargo on Israel. Her activism is often framed through a lens of anti-colonialism and human rights.

Shailene Woodley

Woodley, known for Big Little Lies and the Divergent series, signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and has posted in support of Palestinian rights. An environmental and social activist, she has drawn connections between land rights struggles in the US and the situation in the West Bank and Gaza. Woodley has encouraged her followers to educate themselves on the history of the conflict and to support ceasefire initiatives. Her advocacy is consistent with her history of participating in direct action protests.

Milla Jovovich

The Resident Evil star signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter, joining the call for an immediate end to hostilities. Jovovich, who has Ukrainian heritage, has spoken about the horror of war and displacement, expressing deep empathy for the families in Gaza. She has used her social media to share UNICEF appeals and calls for the protection of children in conflict zones. Her stance focuses heavily on the humanitarian aspect of the crisis.

Kirsten Dunst

Dunst signed the Artists4Ceasefire open letter to President Biden, advocating for an end to the bombing and the safe release of hostages. The Civil War actress has largely let her signature speak for itself but has supported colleagues who have faced backlash for their views. She has contributed to fundraising efforts for medical aid organizations working on the ground in Gaza. Her involvement demonstrates the breadth of support for a ceasefire among established Hollywood figures.

Alyssa Milano

While often associated with liberal causes, Milano signed the 2025 pledge to boycott Israeli film institutions, marking a definitive stance against the state’s cultural bodies. She had previously signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter in 2023, calling for an end to the violence while also condemning Hamas. Her move to support a boycott suggests a hardening of her position in response to the continued war and humanitarian crisis. This evolution reflects a shift seen in several politically active Hollywood figures.

Rooney Mara

Mara signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and later joined the 2025 boycott of Israeli film institutions implicated in the occupation. The actress has also participated in reading the genocide charges against Israel for a video campaign. She has focused her advocacy on the rights of children and the long-term impact of the conflict on Palestinian society. Mara’s quiet but firm activism is often conducted in partnership with her partner Joaquin Phoenix.

Juliette Binoche

The French superstar, who is a staple in Hollywood films, has been extremely vocal, signing multiple letters condemning the “genocide” in Gaza. She faced a tense moment at the Cannes Film Festival where she acknowledged the suffering of Palestinians in her speeches. Binoche has signed the boycott pledge against Israeli cultural institutions and has called for sanctions against the Israeli government. Her activism is prominent in both the European and American film industries.

Indya Moore

The Pose star has been one of the most outspoken critics of Israel, frequently posting about the history of Zionism and the occupation. Moore signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and has attended numerous protests, often livestreaming their participation. They have argued that Palestinian liberation is a queer rights issue, challenging the narrative that LGBTQ+ people should support Israel. Moore has faced significant online harassment for their views but remains undeterred.

Alia Shawkat

The Arrested Development actress, whose father is Iraqi, has been a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause for years. She signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and participated in the video series reading South Africa’s genocide case against Israel. Shawkat has used her art and platform to challenge anti-Arab sentiment and to advocate for the rights of Palestinians. She has frequently called out the industry’s double standards regarding political speech.

Sara Ramirez

The And Just Like That… and Grey’s Anatomy star has alleged that they were blacklisted by Hollywood for their pro-Palestine posts. Ramirez has been relentless in their criticism of Israel, describing the military campaign as a genocide and calling for a free Palestine from the river to the sea. They have posted numerous updates about the humanitarian situation and have criticized major LGBTQ+ organizations for their silence on the issue. Their departure from high-profile roles has been linked by media outlets to their uncompromising activism.

Dua Lipa

Although primarily a singer, Lipa has significant acting credits (Argylle, Barbie) and is a major Hollywood figure who has labeled the Israeli military campaign as a “genocide.” She has faced direct attacks from Israeli officials and rap songs calling for violence against her, which she condemned. Lipa has consistently used her massive platform to advocate for Palestinian rights and a permanent ceasefire. She has stated that her solidarity comes from her own family’s experience with displacement and war in Kosovo.

Selena Gomez

The Only Murders in the Building star signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter, urging immediate action to save lives in Gaza. Gomez’s beauty brand, Rare Beauty, also made a significant donation to Palestinian relief organizations, a move that was rare for celebrity-owned businesses. She has posted about the need to protect civilians and expressed heartbreak over the violence, though she took a brief social media break due to the intensity of the backlash. Her involvement brought the issue to the attention of her massive global following.

Rachel Zegler

The West Side Story and Snow White actress has used her social media to post “Free Palestine” and call for a ceasefire. Zegler has encouraged her followers to donate to Gaza relief funds and has shared infographics about the history of the conflict. She has faced criticism from conservative media for her outspoken political views but has continued to post about the issue. Her advocacy is part of her broader engagement with social justice topics.

Carice van Houten

Known as Melisandre in Game of Thrones, the Dutch actress has been active in Hollywood and is a fierce critic of Israeli policy. She participated in the reading of the genocide charges against Israel and has been arrested at climate protests that also highlighted the war in Gaza. Van Houten has signed the boycott pledge against Israeli cultural institutions. She frequently posts about the intersection of climate justice and Palestinian rights.

Bonnie Wright

The Harry Potter actress signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and has used her platform as an environmental activist to discuss the environmental toll of the war in Gaza. Wright has shared resources for humanitarian aid and called for an end to the blockade. She has supported her former co-stars like Emma Watson and Miriam Margolyes in their criticism of Israel. Her advocacy is often framed around sustainability and human rights.

Aimee Lou Wood

The Sex Education star signed the boycott pledge against Israeli film institutions in 2025, taking a firm stance against cultural normalization. Woodley has attended protests in London calling for an end to the occupation and has worn ceasefire pins at public events. She has spoken about the responsibility of artists to refuse complicity in what she terms an apartheid system. Her activism reflects the strongly pro-Palestine sentiment among the younger generation of British actors.

Dominique Fishback

The Transformers: Rise of the Beasts actress signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and has been active in sharing information about the crisis. Fishback has used her platform to highlight the stories of Palestinian journalists and civilians. She has called for an end to US military funding for Israel, aligning with the demands of the “Uncommitted” movement. Her advocacy focuses on the racial justice dimensions of the conflict.

Dominique Thorne

Star of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and Ironheart, Thorne signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter urging a de-escalation of violence. She has supported calls for humanitarian access and the protection of medical workers in Gaza. Thorne has joined other Marvel actors in breaking the franchise’s typical silence on controversial political issues. Her signature represents a growing willingness among blockbuster stars to take a stand.

Jessie Buckley

The Oscar-nominated actress signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and has been a vocal supporter of Palestinian rights. Buckley has participated in fundraising events for Gaza and has spoken out against the targeting of cultural centers in the territory. She has signed letters condemning the censorship of pro-Palestine voices in the arts. Her stance is consistent with her involvement in independent and socially conscious cinema.

Ilana Glazer

The Broad City star and creator has been a leading Jewish voice in Hollywood advocating for a ceasefire and criticizing Israeli policy. Glazer signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and has partnered with Jewish Voice for Peace to organize actions. She has spoken publicly about the need to separate Jewish identity from support for the state of Israel’s actions. Her activism challenges the notion that the Jewish community in Hollywood is monolithic in its support for Israel.

May Calamawy

The Moon Knight actress, who is of Palestinian and Egyptian descent, has been personally affected by the conflict and is a vocal advocate for her people. She signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and frequently shares harrowing updates from family and friends in the region. Calamawy has criticized the dehumanization of Palestinians in Western media and film. Her role in the MCU gave her a significant platform which she uses to advocate for Palestinian liberation.

Amber Tamblyn

The actress and director signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and has written about the conflict from a feminist perspective. Tamblyn has called for the protection of women and children in Gaza and an immediate end to the bombing. She has engaged in dialogue with other activists to promote a peaceful resolution that respects Palestinian rights. Her advocacy is part of her long-standing commitment to political activism.

Margaret Cho

The comedian and actress signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and has used her comedy tours to address the issue of war and human rights. Cho has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ Palestinians and has challenged “pinkwashing” narratives. She has attended protests and fundraisers for Gaza relief. Her activism is intersectional, linking the struggle for Palestinian rights to other global justice movements.

Hannah Einbinder

The Hacks star has been a prominent Jewish voice for the Palestinian cause, notably shouting “Free Palestine” during her acceptance speech at the Emmys. Einbinder helped organize the “Comedians for cease-fire” showcase to raise money for medical aid in Gaza. She has consistently challenged the idea that anti-Zionism is antisemitism, using her platform to educate her followers. Her outspoken nature has made her a key figure in the progressive Jewish movement in Hollywood.

Ayo Edebiri

The The Bear star signed the pledge to boycott Israeli film institutions in 2025 and has been seen wearing the Artists4Ceasefire pin. Edebiri has supported fundraising efforts for Gaza and has used her rapid rise to fame to shine a light on the humanitarian crisis. She has signed open letters demanding that the US government halt arms transfers to Israel. Her actions reflect the political engagement of the new generation of television stars.

Tessa Thompson

The Creed and Thor actress signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter and has been a long-time supporter of the Palestinian cause. Thompson has used her production company to uplift marginalized voices and has spoken about the need to decolonize narratives, including those around Israel and Palestine. She has attended protests and shared educational resources on the history of the occupation. Her advocacy is deeply integrated into her professional ethos of social responsibility.

Share your thoughts on these actresses’ stances and the impact of celebrity activism in the comments.