John Malkovich Cancels Israel Show Over Misattributed Quotes

Veteran American actor John Malkovich has canceled his planned performance in Israel with his satirical show "The Music Critic," originally scheduled for April 2027. The decision stems from a press release issued by the local production company that included an inaccurate quote attributed to him, which was subsequently published in the U.S. media.

Malkovich stated that a public relations firm hired by the Israeli promoter fabricated a quote for an article, attributing words to him that he never spoke and which were never approved. "I did not say these sentences, and they were certainly not approved by me, and they do not reflect my feelings," Malkovich's statement, released to The Hollywood Reporter, explained. "The fact that they were printed as direct quotes from me is unacceptable, and I cannot stand behind them."

He further clarified that his performance was not intended to express agreement with any political stance, nor to be seen in solidarity with any political position, the killing of innocents, acts of terrorism, or any form of barbarism. Malkovich, who is reportedly seeking an Oscar nomination for his role in Martin McDonagh's new film "Wild Horse Nine," emphasized that the Israel performance was just one stop on a larger European and Middle Eastern tour for "The Music Critic" and not a standalone event supporting the host country.

The original press release had quoted Malkovich as saying, "I am excited to return to Israel and would be very happy to meet the warm Israeli audience again, with whom I feel great closeness and identification. I hope to meet you happy and optimistic. Sending you much love." These remarks were also reported by U.S. media outlets amidst international criticism of Israeli policies.

Despite an amendment sent by the Israeli promoter, Alon Yuric, to the Jerusalem Post acknowledging the inaccurate quote, the correction and apology were insufficient given the volatile political climate. Malkovich concluded by stating his belief in the power of culture and art to bridge divides and protest brutality, but insisted that only playwrights, writers, and screenwriters should put words in his mouth, and only in service of their stories, not without his consent or consequences.