Susan Sarandon has issued a formal apology for the controversial remarks she made concerning the Israel–Hamas conflict. Taking to Instagram on a recent Friday, the Oscar-winning actress explained that her comments were delivered during a rally where she joined a diverse group of activists aiming to draw attention to the pressing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and advocate for a ceasefire. Initially, she had not planned to speak but was invited to address the audience.
Expressing concern about the rise in hate crimes, Sarandon acknowledged that her choice of words, particularly in comparing the experiences of Jewish Americans to those of Muslims in the country, was a significant mistake.
Susan Sarandon (Credits: The Hollywood Reporter)
She recognized that this phrasing erroneously implied that Jews had been strangers to persecution until recently, a viewpoint she strongly disagreed with. Sarandon highlighted the long history of discrimination and religious violence faced by the Jewish community, extending from centuries of oppression in Europe to recent incidents such as the Tree of Life shooting in Pittsburgh, PA. She deeply regretted any harm caused by her comment and clarified that her intention was to express solidarity against bigotry in all its forms.
Despite the controversy, Susan Sarandon affirmed her ongoing commitment to peace, truth, justice, and compassion for all people. She expressed a hope for fostering love and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue, especially with those holding differing views.
The actress had made the controversial remarks at a pro-Palestinian rally in New York City’s Union Square on Nov. 17, pointing to the concerns of American Jews amid increasing antisemitism. Following the incident, Sarandon faced professional repercussions as she was dropped by United Talent Agency, as confirmed by a spokesperson for the agency to The Hollywood Reporter last month.
