Susan Sarandon Claims Career Blacklisting Over Pro-Palestine Stance

Actress Susan Sarandon stated on Sunday at the Venice Film Festival that she is still being denied acting roles due to her public support for Palestine. Speaking at a press conference for her new film, 'The Echo Chamber,' the 79-year-old Oscar winner addressed whether Hollywood's narrative on the Gaza war is shifting.

Sarandon believes the narrative has "completely changed" regarding the historical significance of Palestine and the connections "Zionists" have with American politics, noting that many are now aware of the extent of U.S. funding to Israel. "Agencies are still telling people not to hire me," she revealed, attributing the career setbacks to power structures within the industry. However, she feels more accepted by the general public and on the international stage.

This is not the first time Sarandon has faced industry repercussions for her activism. In 2023, she parted ways with her agency, UTA, after speaking at a pro-Palestinian rally. Earlier this year, she expressed feeling ostracized by the film and television industry for calling for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Sarandon shared that the director of 'The Echo Chamber' was warned against working with her but chose to proceed, a decision she appreciated. "I think among the people themselves, and certainly on the international scene, I feel welcomed," she said, contrasting public opinion with industry attitudes. She noted that while progress has been made publicly, "people in my industry in positions of power who are Zionists" have not softened their stance towards her, but she has found her community and is "okay."

Sarandon is known for her political activism and is considered a radical left figure in American culture, frequently sharing anti-Israel posts on social media, including content from Roger Waters and fringe ultra-Orthodox groups that deny Israel's right to exist.