Marvel Star Mark Ruffalo Denies Antisemitism Allegations Amid Paramount Dispute

The controversy between Marvel actor Mark Ruffalo and Paramount Studios continues after the studio accused him of using antisemitic stereotypes. The dispute began when Ruffalo shared an old video of Safra Katz, a Paramount board member, discussing Oracle technology that assisted the IDF following the October 7 attacks. Ruffalo criticized Larry Ellison, Oracle's founder and a Paramount owner, calling him a "classic oligarch" and used terms like "genocide" and "apartheid" to describe the war in Gaza.

Paramount responded sharply, claiming Ruffalo's remarks employed antisemitic stereotypes. In his first direct response, posted on Instagram, Ruffalo called the antisemitism accusations "shocking" and clarified that his criticism targeted political actions and military contracts, not the Jewish people. He emphasized that critical dialogue is necessary and should not be misconstrued as anti-Israel or antisemitic.

Ruffalo further expressed "deep love and respect" for the Jewish people, stating his political views should not be interpreted as hostility toward them. This is not Ruffalo's first controversy regarding Israel; during the conflict, he frequently criticized Israeli policies and joined Artists4Ceasefire, advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza. However, this incident marks a rare public clash with a major Hollywood studio, prompting Ruffalo to stress the clear distinction he sees between political criticism and antisemitism.