Liev Schreiber and Debra Messing Opt Out of Commitment toBoycott Israeli Cinema

Over 1200 entertainment industry professionals have signed an open letter opposing the recent high-profile pledge by their fellow professionals to boycott Israeli films due to the conflict in Gaza. Among those lending their support to the letter are prominent figures such as Liev Schreiber, Mayim Bialik, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Debra Messing. The letter, released by Creative Community for Peace and The Brigade, contends that the previous pledge promotes the “erasure of art” and “antisemitic propaganda.” It criticizes the pledge, initiated by Film Workers for Palestine and supported by stars like Emma Stone, Joaquin Phoenix, Olivia Colman, and Mark Ruffalo, as not being “an act of conscience” but rather “a document of misinformation” that advocates for arbitrary censorship and the suppression of art. The letter emphasizes that many in the Israeli film industry are critical of government policies and are often penalized for their dissent. It calls for the release of remaining hostages, support for filmmakers promoting dialogue, and opposition to Hamas, arguing that the boycott silences dissident Israeli voices, perpetuates falsehoods, and hinders peace efforts. The initial pledge, announced on September 8, was signed by over 1200 professionals, who vowed not to collaborate with Israeli institutions accused of being involved in the alleged genocide and apartheid against the Palestinian people. In response, senior figures in the Israeli film industry expressed concern about the boycott, and Paramount also condemned it, arguing that silencing artists based on their nationality does not advance understanding or peace.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/sep/25/liev-schreiber-and-debra-messing-among-names-rejecting-pledge-to-boycott-israeli-films