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Susan Sarandon Describes Hollywood Blacklisting After Gaza Ceasefire Comments

EntertainmentSociety5/12/2026
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Oscar winner Susan Sarandon has stated she was dropped by her Hollywood agent and faced professional barriers after publicly calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. She has since found work in England and Italy, focusing on independent films. The topic of artistic freedom was also referenced at the Cannes Film Festival by jury member Paul Laverty.

Facts First

  • Susan Sarandon says she lost her Hollywood agent after publicly calling for a ceasefire in Gaza.
  • Sarandon stated she was told not to be hired by an Italian director and found it impossible to work on major Hollywood projects.
  • The actor has since worked on projects in England and Italy, including a film and a play at London's Old Vic.
  • Sarandon now focuses on 'tiny films' with first-time directors and independent productions.
  • Cannes jury member Paul Laverty quoted Shakespeare on 'madmen lead the blind' during a festival press conference.

What Happened

Oscar-winning actor Susan Sarandon has stated that she was fired by her Hollywood talent agency in February after she publicly called for a ceasefire in Gaza. She made these remarks in Spain prior to receiving an International Goya award. Sarandon stated that it subsequently became impossible for her to appear on television or work on any major Hollywood-connected films. She found new representation in England and Italy and has worked on projects there, including a film in Italy and a play at London's Old Vic theatre for several months. Separately, at the Cannes Film Festival, jury member Paul Laverty addressed a press conference and quoted a line from Shakespeare's King Lear: "'Tis’ the time’s plague when madmen lead the blind."

Why this Matters to You

This situation highlights how public political stances can impact careers, even for established figures. For you, it may signal a continued climate where artists and public figures feel pressure to conform or risk professional consequences. It also underscores where creative work might be flourishing outside traditional hubs, potentially offering new avenues for storytelling.

What's Next

Sarandon's career path now appears to be focused on independent films and collaborations with first-time directors. Her experience may encourage further discussion about artistic freedom and the consequences of political speech within the entertainment industry.

Perspectives

“
Critics of Hollywood condemn the industry for blacklisting actors who oppose the violence against women and children in Gaza, describing such actions as shameful.
“
Cannes Festival Supporters view the festival as a vital celebration of diversity and beauty that stands in stark contrast to the 'vulgar, vicious, systematic violence' occurring in Gaza.