Actresses Who Are Open About Their Jewish Faith

Many prominent figures in Hollywood maintain a strong connection to their Jewish heritage and actively participate in cultural traditions. These women often speak about how their faith influences their personal values and professional choices in the entertainment industry. From veteran stars to rising talents they represent a diverse range of Jewish backgrounds and experiences. This article highlights several actresses who have been vocal about their identity and the role it plays in their lives.

Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman was born in Jerusalem and has always remained close to her Israeli heritage. She often mentions the influence of her Jewish upbringing in her personal life and career decisions. The actress is well known for her roles in films like ‘Black Swan’ and ‘V for Vendetta’ among many others. She maintains a strong connection to her roots while navigating her path as a major star in Hollywood. Her identity is a significant aspect of her public image and her advocacy work.

Gal Gadot

Gal Gadot is an Israeli actress who rose to international fame playing the lead in ‘Wonder Woman’ and its sequel. She served in the Israel Defense Forces before starting her career in the entertainment industry. Gadot frequently celebrates Jewish holidays with her family and shares these moments with her fans online. Her background remains a defining part of her identity as she takes on major roles in global blockbusters. She has often spoken about the values she learned during her childhood in Israel.

Mila Kunis

Mila Kunis moved from Ukraine to the United States when she was a young child and has been open about her Jewish background ever since. She has described the challenges her family faced and their dedication to maintaining their faith. Kunis became a household name through her work on ‘That 70s Show’ and in movies like ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ during her career. She continues to honor her heritage while raising her children in a household that values these traditions. Her journey from an immigrant child to a Hollywood star is frequently discussed in relation to her faith.

Scarlett Johansson

Scarlett Johansson identifies as Jewish and has often spoken about her mother’s side of the family and their traditions. She celebrates Jewish holidays and has expressed pride in her cultural background during various interviews. The actress has earned critical acclaim for her performances in movies such as ‘Lost in Translation’ and ‘Marriage Story’ over the years. Johansson remains one of the most recognizable faces in the world while staying grounded in her personal history. Her heritage remains a point of connection for her and her extended family.

Jamie Lee Curtis

Jamie Lee Curtis is the daughter of legendary actor Tony Curtis and has recently been active in preserving Jewish history. She has spent time and resources restoring a synagogue in Hungary to honor her family’s ancestral roots. Curtis is famous for her work in the ‘Halloween’ franchise and her award winning role in ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’ lately. She speaks openly about her lineage and the importance of remembering where her family came from. Her dedication to heritage projects shows her deep commitment to her Jewish identity.

Elizabeth Banks

Elizabeth Banks converted to Judaism upon marrying her husband and has since become an active member of the community. She has often discussed the conversion process and her commitment to raising her children with Jewish values. Banks is a versatile actress and director known for her work in ‘Pitch Perfect’ and ‘The Hunger Games’ series. She participates in holiday traditions and has found a strong sense of belonging within her faith. Her story highlights how faith can be a chosen path that enriches personal and family life.

Mayim Bialik

Mayim Bialik is perhaps one of the most vocal actresses regarding her Jewish faith and her observant lifestyle. She often shares educational content about Jewish laws and traditions through her social media platforms and personal blog. Bialik gained fame for her roles in ‘Blossom’ and ‘The Big Bang Theory’ while pursuing her education in neuroscience. She balances her career in television with her dedication to her community and her religious practices. Her openness provides a unique perspective on living as an observant Jew in the modern entertainment world.

Kat Dennings

Kat Dennings has often mentioned her Jewish heritage and how it shapes her sense of humor and outlook on life. She grew up in a household where her cultural background was a present and influential factor. Dennings is well known for her leading role in the sitcom ‘2 Broke Girls’ and her appearances in the ‘Thor’ movies. She has spoken about the importance of representing different identities on screen throughout her time in the spotlight. Her fans appreciate her candid nature when discussing her personal life and her roots.

Rashida Jones

Rashida Jones is the daughter of actress Peggy Lipton and has often reflected on her Jewish identity from her mother’s side. She attended Hebrew school as a child and has maintained a connection to her heritage as an adult. Jones is recognized for her roles in popular series like ‘Parks and Recreation’ and ‘The Office’ during her successful career. She often discusses the intersection of her various cultural backgrounds in her creative work and public life. Her perspective as a woman of diverse heritage offers a rich narrative within the Hollywood community.

Sarah Silverman

Sarah Silverman is a comedian and actress who frequently incorporates her Jewish identity into her stand up sets and acting roles. She is known for being very direct about her heritage and the cultural stereotypes she encounters. Silverman has appeared in several projects like ‘The Sarah Silverman Program’ and ‘Wreck It Ralph’ over the years. She uses her platform to discuss issues related to her faith and broader social concerns in a unique way. Her comedy often serves as a medium for exploring her identity and sharing it with a wide audience.

Maya Rudolph

Maya Rudolph has spoken about her Jewish background through her father who is an Ashkenazi Jew. She often blends her various cultural influences into her comedic performances and character work. Rudolph is a beloved former cast member of ‘Saturday Night Live’ and has starred in films like ‘Bridesmaids’ with great success. She embraces her multifaceted identity and frequently mentions her family history in interviews. Her ability to navigate different cultural spaces makes her a unique voice in the entertainment industry.

Dianna Agron

Dianna Agron was raised in a Jewish household and has often discussed the importance of her faith during her childhood. She had a Bat Mitzvah and remained involved in her community while pursuing her acting career. Agron is best known for her role as Quinn Fabray on the hit television series ‘Glee’ which made her a star. She has continued to work in both film and television while staying true to her personal values. Her background remains an integral part of who she is as an artist and an individual.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein is a rising star who has been very open about her Jewish identity and how it informs her work. She grew up in a Jewish family and has often played characters that reflect her own cultural experiences. Feldstein received critical acclaim for her roles in ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’ which showcased her incredible talent. She often shares stories about her upbringing and the traditions that are important to her family. Her authentic representation of Jewish life on screen has been praised by many in the community.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus

Julia Louis-Dreyfus comes from a family with deep Jewish roots and has often referenced her heritage throughout her career. She is one of the most decorated actresses in television history with numerous awards for her work. Louis-Dreyfus is iconic for her roles in ‘Seinfeld’ and ‘Veep’ where she displayed her impeccable comedic timing. She maintains a strong sense of pride in her family history and the legacy of her ancestors. Her enduring success in Hollywood is a testament to her talent and her grounded nature.

Lisa Kudrow

Lisa Kudrow has often spoken about her Jewish faith and the experiences of her ancestors during significant historical events. She explored her family history in depth on the series ‘Who Do You Think You Are’ which revealed many emotional stories. Kudrow became globally famous for playing Phoebe Buffay on the sitcom ‘Friends’ for ten seasons. She continues to be a respected figure in the industry for her acting and producing work. Her connection to her roots is a quiet but significant part of her personal identity.

Gwyneth Paltrow

Gwyneth Paltrow comes from a family with a strong Jewish lineage through her father and has spoken about her pride in that heritage. she has discussed her family traditions and the influence they had on her upbringing and world view. Paltrow is an Oscar winning actress known for ‘Shakespeare in Love’ and her role in the ‘Iron Man’ films. She often explores themes of wellness and spirituality through her lifestyle brand which sometimes reflects her diverse background. Her identity as a Jewish woman is something she has acknowledged throughout her time in the public eye.

Maggie Gyllenhaal

Maggie Gyllenhaal was raised in a family that valued their Jewish heritage and she has continued to honor those roots. She often discusses her background and how it has shaped her perspective as an actress and filmmaker. Gyllenhaal has appeared in many acclaimed films such as ‘The Dark Knight’ and ‘Secretary’ over the course of her career. She is known for taking on complex and challenging roles that require deep emotional work. Her heritage remains a consistent thread in her personal narrative and professional journey.

Jennifer Connelly

Jennifer Connelly has a Jewish mother and has often mentioned her cultural background in relation to her family life. She began her career as a child model before transitioning into a highly successful acting career in Hollywood. Connelly won an Academy Award for her role in ‘A Beautiful Mind’ and has starred in many other notable films. She remains a private person but has been open about her identity when discussing her personal history. Her sophisticated performances continue to captivate audiences around the world.

Isla Fisher

Isla Fisher converted to Judaism before marrying her husband and has fully embraced the faith and its traditions. She has spoken about the beauty of the religion and the sense of community it provides for her family. Fisher is a talented comedic actress known for her roles in ‘Wedding Crashers’ and ‘Confessions of a Shopaholic’ among others. She balances her career with her role as a mother and her commitment to her faith. Her story is a great example of how one can find deep meaning in a chosen spiritual path.

Winona Ryder

Winona Ryder has spoken about her Jewish identity and the history of her family members who were affected by major historical events. She has often identified with her heritage and expressed interest in exploring Jewish themes in her work. Ryder is a celebrated actress who rose to fame in movies like ‘Beetlejuice’ and ‘Edward Scissorhands’ during the eighties and nineties. She has enjoyed a career resurgence with her leading role in the series ‘Stranger Things’ lately. Her identity continues to be a part of her complex and fascinating public persona.

Debra Messing

Debra Messing is an actress who has been very vocal about her Jewish faith and her support for the community. She often uses her social media presence to celebrate Jewish holidays and speak out against social issues. Messing is best known for her iconic role as Grace Adler on the long running sitcom ‘Will and Grace’ during her career. She has received numerous accolades for her work and remains a prominent figure in the industry. Her commitment to her faith and her activism are central to her life outside of acting.

Idina Menzel

Idina Menzel is a powerhouse performer who has often discussed her Jewish upbringing and her connection to her heritage. She grew up on Long Island and has maintained a strong sense of community throughout her rise to fame. Menzel is famous for her incredible voice and her roles in ‘Wicked’ on Broadway and the ‘Frozen’ film franchise. She often includes Jewish cultural references in her personal stories and during her live performances. Her success as a singer and actress has made her a role model for many young fans.

Emmy Rossum

Emmy Rossum was raised by her Jewish mother and has always been open about her identity and her pride in her roots. She has spoken about the traditions they shared and the values that were instilled in her from a young age. Rossum is well known for her leading role in the television series ‘Shameless’ and for her performance in the film ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ years ago. She continues to work in the industry as both an actress and a director on various projects. Her heritage remains a foundational part of her personal and professional life.

Lea Michele

Lea Michele has spoken about her Jewish heritage from her father’s side and how it has influenced her life and career. She has often shared photos of her family celebrating traditional holidays and events together. Michele gained international fame for her role as Rachel Berry on the hit show ‘Glee’ and for her work on Broadway. She has transitioned into a successful recording artist and author while continuing to act in various roles. Her connection to her family and their traditions is a frequent topic of her public discourse.

Hailee Steinfeld

Hailee Steinfeld has discussed her Jewish heritage through her maternal grandfather and has expressed pride in her diverse background. She has balanced a successful career in both acting and music since she was a teenager. Steinfeld received an Oscar nomination for her breakout role in ‘True Grit’ and has since starred in many major films. She is also a popular pop singer with several hit songs that have topped the charts globally. Her heritage is one of the many facets that make up her unique and talented personality.

Zoë Kravitz

Zoë Kravitz comes from a rich cultural background and has spoken about her Jewish identity from both her father and her mother Lisa Bonet. She has often discussed the influence of her family’s history on her own creative process and world view. Kravitz is a successful actress known for her roles in ‘Big Little Lies’ and as Catwoman in ‘The Batman’ recently. She also pursues music and fashion as part of her multifaceted career in the arts. Her diverse roots are a major part of her identity as a modern and influential star.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross is the daughter of Diana Ross and Robert Ellis Silberstein and has spoken about her Jewish heritage with pride. She identifies with both her Black and Jewish roots and often celebrates the diversity of her background. Ross is a celebrated actress known for her roles in ‘Girlfriends’ and ‘The High Note’ throughout her long career. She uses her public platform to advocate for inclusivity and to share stories about her family history. Her unique identity is a central part of her public persona and her artistic expression.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood was raised in a household where her mother converted to Judaism and she has often spoken about her Jewish identity. She has described herself as having a strong connection to the culture and its history. Wood is a versatile actress who has appeared in projects like ‘Thirteen’ and the series ‘Westworld’ over the years. She is also known for her activism and her willingness to speak out on important social issues. Her background remains an important part of her personal narrative as she continues her career.

Amanda Peet

Amanda Peet has often discussed her Jewish heritage and the role it plays in her family life and traditions. She is married to a prominent writer who also shares her background and they raise their children with these values. Peet is known for her roles in films like ‘The Whole Nine Yards’ and the television series ‘Togetherness’ among others. She has also written plays that explore themes of identity and family relationships. Her openness about her faith is a consistent part of her public presence.

Chelsea Handler

Chelsea Handler is a comedian and actress who has been very open about her Jewish faith and her family history. She often uses humor to explore her identity and the cultural experiences she had growing up. Handler is well known for her talk shows and her successful career as an author and producer in Hollywood. She has traveled to Israel and spoken about her connection to the land and her heritage. Her direct and honest approach to her life includes a strong acknowledgment of her Jewish roots.

Lizzy Caplan

Lizzy Caplan was raised in a Jewish home and has often mentioned her heritage in relation to her career and personal life. She had a traditional upbringing and has maintained a connection to the community as an adult. Caplan is recognized for her roles in ‘Mean Girls’ and the television series ‘Masters of Sex’ where she earned critical acclaim. She continues to take on diverse roles in both film and television while staying grounded in her history. Her sense of humor and her identity are often linked in the eyes of her fans.

Barbra Streisand

Barbra Streisand is an icon who has been a vocal and proud representative of the Jewish community throughout her legendary career. She has often incorporated her heritage into her films and her music over several decades. Streisand is an EGOT winner with incredible success as a singer, actress, director, and producer. She has used her platform to advocate for various causes and to support Jewish organizations around the world. Her influence on the entertainment industry and her commitment to her faith are truly remarkable.

Bette Midler

Bette Midler has often spoken about her Jewish background and how it influenced her style of performance and humor. She grew up in Hawaii as part of a small Jewish community which shaped her unique perspective. Midler is a multi talented artist known for her work in ‘Hocus Pocus’ and ‘The First Wives Club’ as well as her music. She remains a beloved figure in Hollywood who continues to entertain audiences with her talent and wit. Her heritage is a source of pride and a recurring theme in her public life.

Goldie Hawn

Goldie Hawn was raised in a Jewish family and has spoken about her connection to her faith and its values. She has balanced her career as a successful actress and producer with a dedication to mindfulness and education. Hawn is famous for her roles in ‘Private Benjamin’ and ‘Cactus Flower’ for which she won an Oscar. She often discusses her spiritual journey and how her background has influenced her outlook on life. Her positive energy and her commitment to her roots have made her a favorite among fans for generations.

Kate Hudson

Kate Hudson was raised by her mother Goldie Hawn with Jewish traditions and has spoken about her pride in that heritage. She identifies with the culture and has often celebrated holidays with her extended family. Hudson became a star with her role in ‘Almost Famous’ and has since starred in many successful romantic comedies. She also runs a successful lifestyle brand while continuing her acting career in Hollywood. Her identity is a blend of her family influences and her own personal beliefs.

Helen Hunt

Helen Hunt has spoken about her Jewish heritage from her father’s side and the influence it had on her life. She is an Oscar winning actress known for her work in ‘As Good as It Gets’ and the sitcom ‘Mad About You’ in the nineties. Hunt has also transitioned into directing and producing various projects in the industry. She has discussed the importance of family history and the role it plays in shaping one’s character. Her enduring career is a testament to her talent and her dedication to her craft.

Alicia Silverstone

Alicia Silverstone was raised in a Jewish household and has often spoken about the importance of her faith during her childhood. She had a traditional Bat Mitzvah and has maintained a connection to her roots throughout her life. Silverstone became a pop culture icon for her role in the film ‘Clueless’ which remains a fan favorite. She is also a passionate advocate for animal rights and environmental causes outside of her acting work. Her identity as a Jewish woman is an important part of her personal narrative.

Selma Blair

Selma Blair has often mentioned her Jewish heritage and the role it plays in her personal identity and family life. She has been open about her experiences and her commitment to her community over the years. Blair is known for her roles in ‘Cruel Intentions’ and ‘Hellboy’ as well as her recent work in television. She has also been a powerful voice for disability awareness after sharing her health journey with the public. Her resilience and her connection to her roots are inspiring to many of her fans.

Rachel Bilson

Rachel Bilson comes from a Jewish family on her father’s side and has often referenced her heritage in interviews. She grew up in Southern California and became a household name for her role in the series ‘The O.C.’ during the early two thousands. Bilson has continued to work in television and has also explored fashion and parenting in her public life. She celebrates traditional holidays and maintains a strong bond with her family and their history. Her career and her personal life are shaped by the diverse influences of her background.

Natasha Lyonne

Natasha Lyonne has often spoken about her Orthodox Jewish upbringing and how it has influenced her unique perspective. She has used her personal history as inspiration for her creative work and her character development. Lyonne is a critically acclaimed actress and creator known for ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and the series ‘Russian Doll’ recently. She is known for her quick wit and her ability to tackle complex and existential themes in her projects. Her identity is a central and vibrant part of her public persona and artistic voice.

Ginnifer Goodwin

Ginnifer Goodwin was raised in a Jewish home and has often discussed the importance of her faith and her community. She has remained active in her traditions and has spoken about the role they play in her family life today. Goodwin is well known for her roles in the series ‘Big Love’ and for playing Snow White in ‘Once Upon a Time’ for many years. She continues to take on diverse roles in television and film while staying connected to her roots. Her warmth and her commitment to her values are evident in her public appearances.

Alison Brie

Alison Brie has a Jewish mother and has often spoken about her cultural heritage and the traditions she grew up with. She has balanced her career in both comedy and drama with great success over the years. Brie is recognized for her roles in ‘Community’ and ‘Mad Men’ as well as her lead role in the series ‘GLOW’ more recently. She often shares stories about her family and the influence of her background on her life. Her talent and her engaging personality have made her a standout in the entertainment industry.

Julia Garner

Julia Garner has spoken about her Jewish identity and the influence of her mother who is from Israel. she has often discussed her family background and how it has shaped her as an actress and an individual. Garner is a multi award winning actress known for her incredible performance in the series ‘Ozark’ and for ‘Inventing Anna’ recently. She is recognized for her unique look and her ability to transform into complex and diverse characters. Her heritage remains an important part of her identity as she continues to rise in Hollywood.

Zoey Deutch

Zoey Deutch comes from a Jewish family and has often expressed her pride in her heritage during public appearances. She has discussed the importance of her background and the traditions that her family maintains. Deutch is a rising star known for her roles in ‘The Politician’ and movies like ‘Set It Up’ among others. She is also active in various social causes and uses her platform to advocate for positive change. Her identity and her commitment to her community are key aspects of her life and career.

Maude Apatow

Maude Apatow has spoken about her Jewish heritage through her father Judd Apatow and the cultural influence it has had on her. she has grown up in the entertainment industry and has recently made a name for herself with her own acting work. Apatow is well known for her role in the hit series ‘Euphoria’ where she has earned praise for her performance. She often shares glimpses of her family life and the traditions they celebrate together. Her background is a significant part of her identity as she builds her own successful career.

Iris Apatow

Iris Apatow also shares a Jewish heritage through her father and has been open about her background as she begins her own career. She has appeared in several projects directed by her father and has recently taken on more independent roles. Apatow is known for her work in the series ‘Love’ and her presence on social media where she connects with fans. She celebrates her family history and the traditions that have been passed down to her. Her identity is a blend of her Hollywood upbringing and her cultural roots.

Zosia Mamet

Zosia Mamet has spoken about her Jewish identity and the influence of her father legendary playwright David Mamet. She has often discussed her heritage in relation to her upbringing and her creative perspective as an artist. Mamet gained fame for her role as Shoshanna Shapiro on the series ‘Girls’ where she played a memorable character. She has continued to work in television and film while exploring other creative pursuits. Her background remains a constant and influential factor in her life and her work.

Lena Dunham

Lena Dunham has often referenced her Jewish heritage in her writing and her public discourse over the years. She has used her personal experiences to explore themes of identity and culture in her creative projects. Dunham is the creator and star of the groundbreaking series ‘Girls’ and has also written books and directed films. She is known for her candid and often provocative approach to discussing her life and her beliefs. Her Jewish identity is a recurring theme that she explores with both humor and sincerity.

Shira Haas

Shira Haas is an Israeli actress who gained international acclaim for her role in the series ‘Unorthodox’ about a young woman leaving a religious community. She has spoken extensively about her Jewish identity and the importance of authentic representation on screen. Haas has also starred in several Israeli films and television shows before becoming a global star. She continues to take on challenging and meaningful roles that highlight her incredible talent and her heritage. Her success has brought a unique perspective on Jewish life to a wide audience.

Jamie-Lynn Sigler

Jamie-Lynn Sigler was raised in a Jewish household and has often spoken about her connection to her faith and her community. She had a Bat Mitzvah and has remained involved in various cultural and religious traditions. Sigler is best known for her role as Meadow Soprano on the iconic series ‘The Sopranos’ throughout its run. she has also been an advocate for health awareness and has shared her personal journey with the public. Her heritage remains a foundational part of her life and her identity as an actress.

Tell us which of these talented actresses is your favorite in the comments.