John Malkovich Cancels Israel Performance Over False Quotes

Actor John Malkovich has canceled his planned performance in Israel next year, citing unauthorized press releases that attributed false quotes to him. The Hollywood Reporter revealed that Malkovich was scheduled to appear on April 13 at the Tel Aviv Opera House in the satirical theatrical-musical "The Music Critic," created by violinist and composer Alexei Igudesman.

A press release issued on September 5 included quotes attributed to Malkovich stating he was "excited to return to Israel" and "looking forward to meeting the warm Israeli audience again, with whom I feel a deep connection and solidarity." However, Malkovich claims he did not approve the press release and only learned of its publication after reading a report in The Hollywood Reporter, which itself was based on an initial report in The Jerusalem Post.

Malkovich asserts that the quotes attributed to him were never spoken and were not submitted for his approval before publication. Consequently, he has announced his withdrawal from the Tel Aviv performance. In a statement to the magazine, Malkovich explained that a public relations firm hired by the show's Israeli producer drafted quotes attributed to him, despite him not having said them and not being consulted prior to their release.

"I did not say these sentences, and they were certainly not approved by me and do not reflect my feelings," Malkovich stated. He added that the publication of these words as direct quotes is "unacceptable and impossible for me," leading to his decision not to participate in the Tel Aviv show. 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, nor do they signify support for any political cause, the killing of innocents, acts of terror, or any form of barbarism.

Malkovich has visited Israel previously, attending the Jerusalem Film Festival in 2008 as a guest of honor. In 2013, he returned to perform in "The Infernal Comedy: Confessions of a Serial Killer" at the Eilat Chamber Music Festival and at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art.