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Oscar-winning actress Susan Sarandon revealed at the Venice Film Festival that Hollywood agencies continue to block her from film roles due to her outspoken criticism of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
Sarandon, who appears in the Italian film “The Echo Chamber,” said key industry power brokers remain strongly opposed to her stance.
The United Talent Agency dropped the “Thelma & Louise” star in November 2023 following controversial comments at a pro-Palestinian rally, for which she later issued a public apology.
Despite ongoing pushback from agency executives, Sarandon argued that public perception regarding United States foreign policy and support for Israel has shifted significantly.
She noted that general audiences now possess a broader understanding of the financial and military aid flowing into the conflict.
Sarandon remains a prominent voice alongside actors such as Mark Ruffalo and Joaquin Phoenix, who frequently criticise the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.
The Venice Film Festival continues to highlight the political tension surrounding the Middle East conflict through several film premieres.
Directors Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, who previously won an Oscar for their West Bank documentary “No Other Land,” prepare to screen their latest project, “NAZA”, examining civilian casualties in Gaza.
For her part, Sarandon expressed resilience regarding her career setbacks, emphasising that she has found a supportive community outside the traditional studio framework.
