Friends star David Schwimmer slams Hollywood for ‘heinous’ silence over antisemitism

Friends icon David Schwimmer has delivered a scathing critique on Hollywood celebrities for not speaking up against rising antisemitism worldwide. The 58 year old actor famed for his role as Ross Gellar in the cherished TV series stepped up to the plate at the Anti-Defamation League’s Never is Now summit this week, calling on his “heroes” in the industry to actively denounce racist vitriol, rather than stay complicit through their silence.

He particularly targeted those celebs who’ve cemented their careers by embracing their Jewish heritage or portraying Jewish characters, his statements arriving hot on the heels of openly requesting Elon Musk to block Kanye West from X following his spree of antisemitic tirades and self-proclaimed Nazi affiliation.

In an impassioned plea while donned in smart attire, Schwimmer addressed the attendees: “Plenty of people I respect, even some of my heroes in entertainment, music and sports, have chosen to keep a low profile and sit this one out, including some whose careers have been made by leaning into their Jewish identity, and others who have won acclaim for playing Jews onscreen.

” Some of them are doing a lot behind the scenes, privately and in their own way, but so many have chosen not to say anything publicly at all. And if I can say something directly to them: I really wish you would. “

He then passionately urged:” I wish you would stand up. I wish you would speak out, because your voice would be so meaningful to your fans who love you, to your community members who need you, to folks who can use just a little solidarity right now, “reports the Express.

” No one’s asking you to solve the conflict of the Middle East. Just say that you stand with your Jewish friends, colleagues, and neighbours against hatred and what’s happening on our college campuses and in our schools and to Jewish-owned businesses is totally unacceptable. “

At the same glittering event, ‘ Wonder Woman ‘ star Gal Gadot graced the stage to collect the Anti-Defamation League’s prestigious International Leadership Award.

In her heartfelt 12-minute speech, the Israeli actress made a fervent plea for the liberation of the hostages still captive in Gaza amid the ongoing skirmish with Israel, saying”, With every hostage release we hear new testimonies of the horrors they’ve been through. Every minute for them is hell. Their lives are in danger and we need them home, “captivating attendees with her words.

Gadot continued with conviction”, None of us can ignore the explosion of Jew hatred around the world anymore. We have had enough of Jew hatred, we will confront anti-Semitism. We will call it out, but we will never let it, not only, defeat us but define us because our love is stronger than their hate. “

The alarm over rising anti-Semitism has intensified notably in the last two years, especially within the United States, as inflamed far-right ideologies emerge alongside political discontentment related to the contentious Israel-Gaza stalemate.

On 7 October 2023, an unprecedented attack by Hamas on Israel resulted in the death of around 1200 people and the abduction of 251 individuals. This incident sparked a surge in the conflict between Israel and Gaza, with numerous bombings and unsuccessful ceasefire attempts over the following two years.

The death toll has since escalated to over 50, 000, with the majority being Palestinian civilians killed in IDF bombings. This tragic loss of life has further intensified global tensions towards Jewish people.

Recently, a delicate ceasefire agreement has been maintained since 19 January, resulting in the successful exchange of 33 Israeli and five Thai hostages for approximately 2, 000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees. However, it remains uncertain whether negotiations for the release of the remaining hostages and the completion of the Israeli withdrawal will proceed, despite US President Trump’s demands for Hamas to release all remaining hostages or face severe repercussions.

In a blistering tirade on Truth Social earlier this week, he warned the militant group:” ‘ Shalom Hamas ‘ means Hello and Goodbye – You can choose. Release all of the Hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you. “

He then continued with a stern warning:” Only sick and twisted people keep bodies, and you are sick and twisted! I am sending Israel everything it needs to finish the job, not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don’t do as I say. I have just met with your former Hostages whose lives you have destroyed. This is your last warning! “He added with an ominous tone:” For the leadership, now is the time to leave Gaza, while you still have a chance. Also, to the People of Gaza: A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are DEAD! Make a SMART decision. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW, OR THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY LATER! “.

Source: Mirror