When over 1,300 global filmmakers and A-list actors pledge to boycott Israeli film institutions over accusations of genocide and apartheid, Hollywood doesn’t just speak; it roars. A sharp cultural rupture is underway in the film world, as dozens of BAFTA, Emmy, Oscar, and Cannes winners have signed a bold statement organized by Film Workers for Palestine (per Variety).
The pledge calls out film entities, including Jerusalem Film Festival, Haifa International Film Festival, Docaviv, and TLVFest, for being “implicated in genocide and apartheid against the Palestinian people.” The document pulls no punches, stating that examples of complicity include
Whitewashing or justifying genocide and apartheid, and/or partnering with the government committing them.
Backed by artists like Olivia Colman, Emma Stone, Riz Ahmed, Tilda Swinton, Adam McKay, and Joshua Oppenheimer, the pledge reportedly draws its inspiration from the 1987 cultural boycott of apartheid South Africa, once led by Jonathan Demme, Martin Scorsese, and others.
Among the actors now refusing to engage with Israeli film institutions: Emma Stone, Olivia Colman, Ayo Edebiri, Lily Gladstone, Mark Ruffalo, Hannah Einbinder, Peter Sarsgaard, Aimee Lou Wood, Paapa Essiedu, Gael Garcia Bernal, Riz Ahmed, Melissa Barrera, Cynthia Nixon, Tilda Swinton, Javier Bardem, Joe Alwyn and Josh O’Connor. Here are the most prominent names who’ve taken a stand and the reasons why.
5. Mark Ruffalo
Academy Award nominee Mark Ruffalo is among the most visible voices in the entertainment world condemning Israel’s assault on Gaza. Last year at the Oscars, he was seen wearing a red pin symbolizing support for a ceasefire, joining attendees like Ava DuVernay, Billie Eilish, and Finneas (per The Wrap).
In June, Ruffalo reportedly criticized Israel’s handling of the hostage rescue operation, saying that a ceasefire could have led to the freeing of hostages without Palestinian casualties (via Newsweek).
I have reflected & wanted to apologize for posts during the recent Israel/Hamas fighting that suggested Israel is committing “genocide”. It’s not accurate, it’s inflammatory, disrespectful & is being used to justify antisemitism here & abroad. Now is the time to avoid hyperbole.
— Mark Ruffalo (@MarkRuffalo) May 25, 2021
In 2021, he had previously apologized for using the term “genocide” but now he has re-emerged in the spotlight with firm support for Gaza.
4. Melissa Barrera
Melissa Barrera, star of Scream VI and Abigail, was let go from the Scream 7 cast after voicing her views on the Israel-Gaza war. According to AP News, she was fired after describing the conflict as “genocide” and repeatedly using her social media platforms to support Palestinian civilians.
Metro UK reported that she addressed accusations of antisemitism and incitement of hate through an Instagram statement, continuing to post updates on the humanitarian crisis despite the backlash from the industry.
3. Emma Watson
Emma Watson, widely known for her role in the Harry Potter franchise, found herself at the center of heated controversy after uploading a photo of a pro-Palestinian protest featuring the message: “Solidarity is a verb.” As reported by Al Jazeera, the post included a poem by British activist Sara Ahmed.
Pro-Israeli activists and political leaders reacted sharply, accusing her of antisemitism. In response, celebrities including Susan Sarandon, Steve Coogan, and Viggo Mortensen signed an open letter defending her expression of solidarity (via The Guardian).
2. Joe Alwyn
British actor Joe Alwyn, who gained media attention following his breakup with Taylor Swift, took a subtle yet pointed stand on the conflict in Gaza. Instead of avoiding the public gaze, Alwyn used the buzz around Swift’s 2024 birthday to redirect attention toward Palestine.
On Instagram, Alwyn shared an article calling for a ceasefire, urging the Biden administration to act immediately. The New York Times piece emphasized the urgency of the humanitarian crisis. In his Instastory, he wrote:
We are no strangers to human suffering, but we’ve seen nothing like the siege of Gaza.
Alwyn has consistently shared posts in support of Palestine, framing his online presence around human rights and international justice.
1. Lily Gladstone
Lily Gladstone, the breakout star of Killers of the Flower Moon, joined the growing list of signatories pledging not to work with Israeli institutions.
Lily Gladstone has signed a pledge stating that she will refuse to work with Israeli institutions and companies that are implicated in genocide and apartheid against the Palestinian people 🇵🇸 pic.twitter.com/DeO36a75IJ
— Lily Gladstone Updates (@LilyGUpdates) September 8, 2025
This isn’t just another trending cause. With careers on the line, reputations in the balance, and backlash pouring in, these artists are taking real risks to oppose what they believe is state-sponsored violence.
Hollywood is no longer a politically neutral stage. Whether through social media, award shows, or film festival withdrawals, these celebrities are drawing their line in the sand.
But here’s the million-dollar question: Will more follow? Or will the industry close ranks and protect its bottom line? Is this a brave act of cultural resistance or a misstep into dangerous political territory?
Drop your thoughts in the comments. Let’s see who’s really awake behind the screen.
