Hollywood Actors Who Have Voiced Criticism of the Pro-Palestine Movement

The escalating conflict in the Middle East has caused a significant fracture within the entertainment community regarding public support and political advocacy. While some celebrities have called for ceasefires, others have staunchly defended Israel and criticized the narratives promoted by pro-Palestinian activists. These figures have used their platforms to condemn Hamas, visit affected regions, or challenge the rhetoric found in protests and on university campuses. The following male actors have faced both praise and intense backlash for their opposition to the pro-Palestine movement.

Noah Schnapp

Noah Schnapp faced intense public scrutiny following his social media activity regarding the conflict in Gaza. The ‘Stranger Things’ actor appeared in a video where people held stickers that read Zionism is sexy while laughing. He also liked a video that mocked Palestinian victims which led to widespread calls for a boycott of the final season of his show. Schnapp later issued a statement claiming his beliefs and thoughts had been misconstrued by the public. He expressed a desire for peace and safety for all innocent people affected by the war.

Michael Rapaport

Michael Rapaport has established himself as one of the most aggressive defenders of Israel in the entertainment industry. The actor frequently posts videos that mock pro-Palestinian activists and criticize calls for a ceasefire. He traveled to Israel to visit the sites of the October 7 attacks and meet with survivors. Rapaport appeared in a sketch on a satirical Israeli comedy show that lampooned university students protesting against the war. His confrontational style has made him a polarizing figure in the ongoing cultural debate.

Jerry Seinfeld

Jerry Seinfeld traveled to Israel to show solidarity with the families of hostages taken by Hamas. The comedian faced protests outside his stand-up shows in various cities where activists accused him of supporting genocide. Dozens of students walked out of the Duke University commencement ceremony when he was introduced as the guest speaker. Seinfeld has largely dismissed the hecklers during his performances and maintained his support for the Jewish state. He described his trip to Israel as the most powerful experience of his life.

Brett Gelman

Brett Gelman has used his platform to vigorously campaign against antisemitism and criticize the narrative surrounding the Palestinian cause. The ‘Fleabag’ actor saw several of his book signing events cancelled due to safety concerns arising from his vocal stance. He visited Israel to witness the aftermath of the attacks and express support for the soldiers. Gelman frequently engages with detractors on social media and argues that anti-Zionism is indistinguishable from antisemitism. He stated that he felt abandoned by the progressive community he was once a part of.

Jon Voight

Jon Voight released a video statement in front of an American flag where he condemned the actions of Hamas and its supporters. The Academy Award winner criticized his daughter Angelina Jolie for her posts that expressed sympathy for Gaza. He declared that the Israeli army must protect its soil and that the conflict is a war between justice and barbarism. Voight urged the American public to recognize the spiritual dimensions of the war and stand firmly with Israel. His comments aligned with his long history of conservative political activism.

Sacha Baron Cohen

Sacha Baron Cohen publicly criticized social media companies for allowing the proliferation of antisemitic content during the conflict. The creator of ‘Borat’ participated in a private meeting with TikTok executives to demand stricter moderation of anti-Israel videos. He argued that the platform was creating a false narrative that demonized the Jewish state and its actions. Cohen signed an open letter alongside other celebrities thanking President Biden for his leadership in supporting Israel. He has consistently used his influence to combat hate speech online.

Michael Douglas

Michael Douglas paid a solidarity visit to southern Israel where he toured the Kibbutz Be’eri community. The actor met with the Israeli President and expressed his shock at the devastation caused by the attacks. He later criticized the wave of pro-Palestinian protests on American college campuses and suggested the students were being manipulated. Douglas wore a yellow ribbon at awards ceremonies to raise awareness for the hostages still held in Gaza. He emphasized that one can hope for peace while acknowledging the right of Israel to defend itself.

David Schwimmer

David Schwimmer utilized his Instagram account to condemn the silence of humanitarian organizations regarding sexual violence committed on October 7. The ‘Friends’ star argued that many activists were selectively applying their principles by ignoring the suffering of Israeli women. He shared detailed accounts of the atrocities and demanded that they be believed by the international community. Schwimmer also signed open letters that called for the release of hostages and supported the American response to the crisis. His posts highlighted the divide within the liberal entertainment community.

Liev Schreiber

Liev Schreiber has been actively involved in humanitarian efforts and visited Israel to support mental health initiatives. The ‘Ray Donovan’ actor spoke at rallies in Washington D.C. where he emphasized the need to combat antisemitism and support the Jewish homeland. He engaged with soldiers and survivors during his trip to understand the ground reality of the war. Schreiber has balanced his support for Ukraine with a firm stance on the rights of Israel to exist securely. He uses his social media to share stories of resilience from the region.

Dean Cain

Dean Cain traveled to Israel to film a documentary about the terror attacks and the aftermath. The former ‘Lois & Clark’ actor visited hospitals and sites of destruction to document the reality of the situation. He spoke at the Israeli Knesset and criticized the international media coverage for being biased against Israel. Cain stated that seeing the devastation firsthand solidified his unwavering support for the country. He continues to advocate for the Israeli cause through various conservative news outlets.

Please share your thoughts on the political stances taken by these actors in the comments.