Susan Sarandon has apologized for her recent controversial comments regarding the Israel–Hamas conflict.
The Oscar-winning actress took to Instagram Friday, writing, “Recently, I attended a rally alongside a diverse group of activists seeking to highlight the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza and call for a ceasefire. I had not planned to speak but was invited to take the stage and say a few words.”
“Intending to communicate my concern for an increase in hate crimes, I said that Jewish Americans, as the targets of rising antisemitic hate, ‘are getting a taste of what it is like to be Muslim in this country, so often subjected to violence,’” Sarandon continued. “This phrasing was a terrible mistake, as it implies that until recently Jews have been strangers to persecution, when the opposite is true. As we all know, from centuries of oppression and genocide in Europe, to the Tree of Life shooting in Pittsburgh, PA, Jews have long been familiar with discrimination and religious violence which continues to this day. I deeply regret diminishing this reality and hurting people with this comment. It was my intent to show solidarity to the struggle against bigotry of all kinds, and I am sorry I failed to do so.”
She concluded, “I will continue my commitment to peace, truth, justice, and compassion for all people. I hope that we can meet with love and willingness to engage in dialogue, especially with those with whom we disagree.”
Sarandon had attended a pro-Palestinian rally in New York City’s Union Square on Nov. 17, where she made the controversial remarks, pointing at American Jews fearful over rising antisemitism.
Following her comments, Sarandon was dropped by United Talent Agency last month. A talent agency spokesperson confirmed to The Music news at the time that UTA was no longer representing the actress.
