The Israel-Gaza conflict has sent shockwaves through Hollywood, leading to widespread confusion and polarization among actors, directors, and producers who find themselves torn on choosing sides.
The repercussions of this divide have surfaced with the firing of actress Melissa Barrera from the set of 'Scream 7' due to her vocal support for Palestine. The production company Spyglass, responsible for the film, took a decisive stand against Barrera after she referred to Israel as an aggressor, occupier, and colonizer on her social media.
According to 'The Hollywood Reporter,' Barrera's dismissal has prompted the studio to initiate recasting for her role. Speaking to 'Variety,' Spyglass explained their stance, emphasizing zero tolerance for anti-Semitism and any form of hate speech: "We have zero tolerance for anti-Semitism or the incitement of hate in any form, including false references to genocide, ethnic cleansing, Holocaust distortion, or anything that flagrantly crosses the line into hate speech."
Despite facing backlash, Barrera remains steadfast in her support for Palestine, using her Instagram platform to reiterate her stance. Critics have labeled her a terrorist sympathizer.
In an appeal on October 27, Barrera urged people to join her in calling on the White House to intervene and stop Israel's actions: "We come together as artists and advocates, but most importantly as human beings witnessing the devastating loss of lives and unfolding horrors in Palestine and Israel."
Meanwhile, actor Tom Cruise found himself in the midst of controversy for saving his agent at the Creative Artists Agency from potential dismissal over anti-Israel comments. The agent had accused the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) of committing 'genocide' in Gaza.
Since the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, IDF forces have carried out relentless bombardments on Gaza, targeting public infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, and mosques. Ground operations, including blockades of supply lines and access points, have been initiated, accompanied by the use of F-15 and F-16 aircraft to fire missiles. The situation remains highly charged, both on the geopolitical stage and within the corridors of Hollywood.
(With Agency Inputs)
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