Hollywood's Jews take sides in Mark Ruffalo
Jewish Telegraphic Agency • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Approximately 170 prominent Jewish figures, including entertainers, rabbis, and a physician, have signed an open letter defending actor Mark Ruffalo against accusations of antisemitism related to his comments on the Paramount Skydance-Warner Bros. Discovery merger.
- Ruffalo criticized Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison and Oracle, owned by Ellison’s father Larry Ellison, linking them to oppressive actions in Gaza; his comments sparked backlash with allegations of invoking antisemitic tropes about Jewish wealth and power.
- Several Jewish organizations and activists condemned Ruffalo’s remarks as antisemitic, while others, including progressive Jewish figures and entertainers like George Clooney, have defended him, arguing his critique highlights legitimate ethical concerns.
- The $110 billion merger faces federal antitrust litigation and growing opposition in Hollywood and political circles, with Paramount suggesting some opposition to the deal carries an antisemitic element.
- The merger’s future is uncertain due to ongoing legal challenges, with a trial set for March 2027 and financial penalties looming if the deal does not close by October 2024.
