Drake Sparks Controversy With 'Pray for Gaza' Lyric in New Film

Canadian-Jewish rapper Drake has ignited controversy among fans and the Jewish community with the inclusion of an unreleased song lyric, "Pray for Gaza," in his new film, FOMO. The clip, appearing around the 17:47 mark, has prompted intense reactions on social media.

Drake, who grew up in Toronto's Jewish community and celebrated his bar mitzvah at 31, has been a focal point of discussion since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war. Many in the Jewish community had expected him to publicly condemn Hamas's actions, but his silence drew sharp criticism. The new film's lyric is seen by some as an indirect expression of his stance.

This is not the first time Drake has been linked to calls for a ceasefire in Gaza. In October 2023, he was among dozens of artists, actors, and musicians who signed an open letter from Artists4Ceasefire to then-U.S. President Joe Biden and Congress, urging an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of life in Israel and Gaza. Other signatories included Adam Lambert, Andrew Garfield, Bella Hadid, Ben Affleck, and Bradley Cooper.

Drake's father, Dennis Graham, previously defended his son's reluctance to directly address the conflict, telling TMZ that any statement would invite criticism. However, the inclusion of the "Pray for Gaza" lyric suggests Drake is not entirely staying out of the issue. His Jewish community ties and upbringing in an active Jewish community in Toronto make this decision particularly scrutinized, leaving some feeling disappointed by his indirect approach.

The film FOMO continues to generate heated online debate, with some fans condemning Drake's choice and others defending his right to personal expression. Regardless, Drake remains a polarizing figure, especially on sensitive political matters.