LGBTQ+ Actors Who Have Taken Pro-Israel Public Stances

Many high profile actors in the LGBTQ+ community have taken public stances on the conflict between Israel and Palestine that have drawn significant attention from fans and political analysts alike. While some have advocated for a ceasefire or Palestinian rights, others have used their platforms to show strong support for Israel through social media posts and open letters. These public figures often cite their personal heritage or a commitment to opposing terrorism as the primary reasons for their involvement. Their actions have sparked intense debates within the entertainment industry about the role of celebrities in global political issues. This list highlights several male actors who have made clear statements or signed formal documents in support of the Israeli state.

Noah Schnapp

‘Stranger Things’ actor Noah Schnapp generated significant headlines after appearing in a video with stickers that read Zionism is sexy and Hamas is ISIS. He published a statement on social media declaring that choosing between Israel and terrorism should not be a difficult choice. These comments sparked a widespread online campaign calling for his removal from his starring role as Will Byers. Schnapp later attempted to clarify his position by stating that he wanted peace for both Palestinians and Israelis. He also noted that his thoughts and beliefs had been misconstrued during the intense period of online debate.

Brett Gelman

Brett Gelman is best known for his roles in the hit series ‘Stranger Things’ and ‘Fleabag’. He has been one of the most vocal supporters of Israel in the entertainment industry and frequently defends the country on social media. Gelman supported his co star Noah Schnapp during the controversy over Zionist stickers by stating that Zionism simply means believing Israel has a right to exist. He also signed the open letter from the Creative Community for Peace which condemned the actions of Hamas. Gelman has characterized opposition to Israel as a potential form of antisemitism in multiple interviews.

Billy Porter

‘Pose’ actor Billy Porter was a signatory of a major open letter released by the Creative Community for Peace in support of Israel. He has publicly addressed the criticism he received for this stance and stated that he is tired of people leaving political comments on his social media. Porter has expressed his support for a two state solution while explicitly criticizing cultural boycotts directed at Israel. He stated in an interview that the conflict was not his hill to die on while continuing to show solidarity with his Jewish friends. His comments have been widely discussed by fans and activists following his involvement in the James Baldwin biopic project.

Stephen Fry

British actor and writer Stephen Fry used his 2023 Alternative Christmas Message to highlight the rise of antisemitism and his support for his Jewish heritage. He signed the Creative Community for Peace letter which voiced support for Israel and called for the return of hostages taken in October. During his televised address, Fry likened certain contemporary protests to the atmosphere of the 1930s in Europe. This comparison was interpreted by many viewers as a critique of pro Palestinian demonstrations taking place across the United Kingdom. He faced significant social media backlash for what critics described as a failure to acknowledge the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris is a celebrated actor known for ‘How I Met Your Mother’ and his extensive work on Broadway. He was a prominent signatory of the Creative Community for Peace letter which stood in solidarity with Israel. Harris also lent his name to an open letter opposing the boycott of the Tel Aviv International LGBTQ Film Festival. This document asserted that film festivals should be spaces for unity rather than political division or exclusion. He has consistently supported the right of Israeli artists to participate in international cultural events.

Zachary Quinto

‘Star Trek’ star Zachary Quinto has been an active supporter of Israeli cultural initiatives and has opposed efforts to boycott the nation. He joined several other high profile actors in signing a letter that defended the Tel Aviv International LGBTQ Film Festival against international pressure to withdraw films. Quinto has advocated for the idea that artistic exchange can build bridges of understanding in the Middle East. His signature on these documents reflects a long standing commitment to supporting Israel within the global entertainment community. He has not publicly retracted his support despite the ongoing debates surrounding the region.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer has appeared in notable projects like ‘Fellow Travelers’ and ‘White Collar’. He showed public support for Israel by posting an image of the Israeli flag on his social media accounts following the events of October 2023. Bomer has also interacted with and supported content from other pro Israel figures in Hollywood like Amy Schumer. His social media engagement has drawn both support and criticism from fans who follow his political and social stances. He remains one of several openly gay actors who have signaled their alignment with the Israeli state during recent conflicts.

Andrew Rannells

Andrew Rannells is an actor and Broadway performer recognized for his work in ‘The Book of Mormon’ and ‘Girls’. He shared a social media post expressing outrage at the violence committed against Israel and described the actions as pure evil. This statement was widely interpreted as a pro Israel stance and was maintained on his public profiles despite significant online debate. Rannells has been highlighted by advocacy groups for his refusal to join calls for a cultural boycott of the region. He has focused his public messaging on condemning the initial attacks that took place in late 2023.

Jonathan Groff

‘Mindhunter’ actor and Broadway star Jonathan Groff was a signatory of the Creative Community for Peace letter in late 2023. This document was released by over two thousand entertainment industry leaders to show support for Israel and condemn the actions of Hamas. Groff joined other prominent figures in calling for the safe return of hostages and supporting Israel’s right to defend itself. His involvement in the letter was reported by multiple entertainment news outlets as part of Hollywood’s unified response to the conflict. He has been a consistent presence in industry initiatives that align with pro Israel organizations.

Share your thoughts on how these actors use their platforms in the comments.