John Malkovich Cancels Israel Performance Over Disputed Remarks

Actor John Malkovich has canceled his upcoming performance in Israel next April, citing a press release issued without his approval that contained quotes falsely attributed to him. The Hollywood Reporter revealed the cancellation, which stems from a press release distributed on September 5th. This release included quotes where Malkovich allegedly expressed excitement about returning to Israel and looking forward to meeting the "warm Israeli audience."

Malkovich stated that he did not authorize the press release and only became aware of it after reading a report in The Hollywood Reporter, which itself was based on an initial report by The Jerusalem Post. He asserts that the attributed quotes were never spoken by him and he was not asked to approve them before publication. Consequently, he has decided not to participate in the "The Music Critic" show in Tel Aviv.

In a statement to the magazine, Malkovich explained that a public relations firm hired by the show's Israeli producer drafted the fabricated quotes. He emphasized that he did not say these things and was not consulted prior to their release, calling the use of direct quotes attributed to him "unacceptable and impossible."

Malkovich further clarified that his performances in any country, including his own, do not constitute an endorsement of that country's policies, actions, or leaders. He also stated that his appearances do not signify support for any political cause, the killing of innocents, acts of terror, or any form of barbarism. He concluded by asserting that only playwrights, authors, and screenwriters are permitted to put words in his mouth for the sake of a story, and no one else can do so without his consent and understanding of the consequences.

Malkovich, 72, is a two-time Oscar nominee known for his roles in films such as "Places in the Heart," "In the Line of Fire," "Dangerous Liaisons," and "Being John Malkovich." He previously visited Israel in 2008 for the Jerusalem Film Festival and in 2013 for a performance at the Eilat International Festival of Chamber Music.