Boy George Meets Israeli President, Discusses Support for Israel

British singer Boy George met with Israeli President Yitzhak Herzog and his wife Michal at the President's Residence in Jerusalem on Monday. The meeting, attended by businessman Sylvan Adams and producer Guy Bassar, followed the singer's arrival in Israel over the weekend. Following a private discussion, a press conference was held.

President Herzog thanked the singer for his support of Israel, noting that Jews worldwide have faced antisemitism since October 7th and that Boy George "stood by our side." He also acknowledged Elkana Bohbot, a hostage survivor held by Hamas for 738 days, and congratulated him and his wife on the birth of their daughter. As Boy George prepared to visit the Gaza border region, the Herzogs presented him with carnations symbolizing revival.

Boy George described the challenges and personal cost of his public stance, stating, "The old Boy George in a way doesn't exist anymore, and people look at me differently." He revealed losing many friends over his support for Israel. He also spoke about writing his song "We Will Dance Again" after the Nova music festival massacre, explaining his deep connection to the Jewish community and his decision to stand with them.

Boy George is scheduled to visit the Nova festival site in Re'im on Tuesday for another press conference. Later in the week, he will perform two concerts in Tel Aviv: on November 4th, he will host Ivri Lider, and on November 7th, he will hold a show dedicated to the Nova community and their families, featuring DJ Ofer Nissim.