Susan Sarandon’s Talent Agency Drops Her Like a Hot Potato Over Israel-Hamas Comments

Susan Sarandon Drops Talent Agency After Controversial Comments on Israel-Hamas Conflict

Oscar Winning Actress Susan Sarandon Dropped by Talent Agency

Susan Sarandon Dropped by Talent Agency after Pro-Palestinian Rally Controversy

In a surprising turn of events, Susan Sarandon, the oscar-winning actress, has been dropped by her talent agency, United Talent Agency (UTA). The reason? Comments she made during a pro-Palestinian rally in New York City that drew widespread criticism.

Sarandon has been actively participating in rallies surrounding the Israel-Hamas war. However, it was her remarks during a speech at Union Square that caused a stir. In a video shared by The New York Post, she expressed empathy for Jewish individuals who are feeling afraid, stating that they are getting a taste of what it feels like to be a Muslim in a country often subjected to violence.

But it was the interpretation of these comments that sparked controversy. Some believed that Sarandon was suggesting that Jews deserved to be scared and disregarding the discrimination they face in the United States. Aviva Klompass, a former speechwriter for Israel’s delegation to the UN, voiced her disappointment, stating that Sarandon’s remarks implied that American Jews “don’t deserve to live free from harassment and assault.”

It is worth noting that since the Hamas attack on Israel, the US has witnessed a significant rise in antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents. These developments further intensified the impact of Sarandon’s comments.

Sarandon’s controversial stance didn’t end there. She also shared a post from Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters, known for his controversial views on Israel and accusations of antisemitism. This endorsement further compounded the backlash.

To clarify her position, Sarandon emphasized that speaking up against Israel should not be confused with antisemitism. She claimed to be against both antisemitism and Islamophobia. However, her words failed to appease UTA, as the agency swiftly decided to cut ties with the renowned actress.

This incident is one of the most high-profile examples of an agency taking action based on public comments regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. Another instance occurred when Maha Dakhil, co-head of film at CAA, resigned from the board after reposting an Instagram story that accused supporters of genocide. Although she apologized, screenwriter Aaron Sorkin, a CAA client, chose to move to rival agency William Morris Endeavor Entertainment (WME) as a result.

Similarly, actress Melissa Barrera faced consequences for calling Israel’s actions “genocide.” She was fired from the next installment of the “Scream” franchise by production company Spyglass.

The complex nature of the Israel-Palestine conflict often leads to polarizing opinions. Nevertheless, it is essential to navigate these discussions with sensitivity and understanding. It remains to be seen how this controversy will impact Sarandon’s career and the broader sentiments within the entertainment industry.

UTA did not respond to Business Insider’s request for comment at the time of publication.

What are your thoughts on Susan Sarandon’s comments and her agency’s decision to drop her? Do you believe it was justified, or is it an infringement on freedom of speech? Share your views in the comments below!