Lior Ashkenazi Suggests End to Impersonating Benny Gantz on TV

Israeli actor Lior Ashkenazi, known for his impersonation of former IDF Chief of Staff and politician Benny Gantz on the satirical show 'Eretz Nehederet' (A Wonderful Country), has indicated that his portrayal of Gantz may be coming to an end. Ashkenazi stated, "I think we've exhausted Gantz for generations," humorously reflecting on his nearly eight-year tenure in the role.

Ashkenazi, who joined the show around the same time Gantz entered politics, noted that while he has often considered leaving the role each season, he has always found himself returning. He recalled Gantz's initial portrayal as a gag, characterized by his silence, which lasted longer than anticipated. Despite the comedic nature of the show, Ashkenazi expressed some discomfort with the current political standing of Gantz, mentioning that the show largely avoided satirizing him in the past season and that he had discussed with the show's creator, Muli Shagav, about the limits of satire.

The past year has been particularly productive for Ashkenazi, following two years focused on efforts to secure the release of hostages. He recently directed the film 'The Buffalo Effect,' which stars Mariano Idelman and Maor Cohen. The movie centers on a group of individuals suffering from post-traumatic stress who are not recognized by official committees. They establish a food truck and support each other until a tragic event prompts them to demand what they are owed.

Ashkenazi also spoke about his cousin Omer Shem-Tov, a former hostage, describing him as resourceful and seemingly unaffected by his ordeal. He contrasted Shem-Tov's adaptation with that of many other survivors who are still adjusting to life a year after their release, calling Shem-Tov a "star."