Actor Mark Ruffalo criticized the proposed $111 billion merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros Discovery, linking it to Oracle's ties with the Israeli military amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. On September 2, 2026, more than 180 prominent Jewish figures, primarily from the entertainment industry, expressed support for Ruffalo, rejecting accusations of anti-Semitism he has faced since voicing his opposition to the merger.
Ruffalo's comments connected the merger to Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle, and his support for Israel's actions in Gaza, which he described as genocide. Paramount responded by accusing Ruffalo of using anti-Semitic tropes, stating that references to genocide and apartheid in relation to a corporate transaction were excessive. Ruffalo countered this allegation, calling it "appalling and fundamentally dishonest," asserting that his criticism was directed at Israeli government policies and not at Jewish individuals.
Experts noted that the controversy reflects a broader issue where accusations of anti-Semitism are often used to undermine criticism of Israel, especially as public sentiment in the U.S. shifts. Ruffalo shared a clip on Instagram featuring Oracle Executive Vice Chair Safra Catz discussing the company's support for Israel, which he interpreted as complicity in violence against Palestinians.
The Simon Wiesenthal Center's CEO, Jim Berk, condemned Ruffalo's remarks as a case of obsession with demonizing Jews, while Anti-Defamation League head Jonathan Greenblatt called them cynical. Ruffalo clarified that his views stem from political beliefs and should not be seen as hostility toward Jewish people.
In April, over 1,400 figures from the film industry, including actors and directors, signed a letter opposing the merger, citing concerns about media consolidation. Zachary Foster, a Jewish historian, criticized the anti-Semitism allegations against Ruffalo as irrational, arguing that criticism of Israel should not be conflated with bigotry.
The article also highlights how accusations of anti-Semitism have historically been used to suppress pro-Palestinian voices, with notable examples of academics facing professional repercussions for their criticisms of Israel. Younes, legal director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, emphasized that these tactics have effectively stifled dissent and activism.
Despite the backlash, Ruffalo has received support from various Hollywood figures, including Jane Fonda and John Cusack. The letter from Jewish supporters stated that the weaponization of anti-Semitism charges against critics of Israel is dangerous and false.
Public opinion regarding Israel appears to be shifting, with recent polls indicating a decline in support for Israel among Americans, particularly younger demographics. Foster noted that the visibility of the conflict has altered perceptions, with many recognizing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Younes remarked that pro-Israel groups are losing control over the narrative, indicating a growing willingness among the public to engage in discussions about Israel's actions.