Lior Ashkenazi Suggests End to Benny Gantz Impersonation on 'Eretz Nehederet'

Actor Lior Ashkenazi, who has portrayed former IDF Chief of Staff and politician Benny Gantz on the satirical TV show 'Eretz Nehederet' for nearly eight years, has indicated that the impersonation may be coming to an end. Ashkenazi stated humorously in a recent interview, "I think we've exhausted Gantz for generations," referencing the character's initial gag of remaining silent.

Ashkenazi's comments come amid unfavorable polls for Gantz, which place him far below the electoral threshold. The actor admitted that while the satire is lighthearted, it feels somewhat uncomfortable given Gantz's former military leadership. He noted that the show largely avoided satirizing Gantz in the past season, a decision he supported, believing there are limits to satire.

In addition to discussing the potential end of his Gantz portrayal, Ashkenazi spoke about his recent directorial work, including the film 'The Buffalo Effect.' 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 one tragic event prompts them to demand their rights.

Ashkenazi also shared insights into the resilience of his relative, Omer Shem-Tov, a former hostage who returned a year ago. He described Shem-Tov as resourceful and seemingly unaffected by his ordeal, contrasting him with other survivors who are still adjusting to life after captivity.