Javier Bardem speaks out after Paramount sidelines him over remarks on the Gaza genocide amid reported creative tensions; says ‘I’m not surprised’

Javier Bardem has never been one to soften his words, and his latest remarks have once again placed him at the centre of Hollywood’s most uncomfortable conversations. The Oscar-winning actor has addressed reports that he has been quietly sidelined by Paramount Pictures following his outspoken criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, and he insists the backlash comes as no shock.



Speaking candidly in a recent interview, Bardem acknowledged that professional repercussions were inevitable once he chose to challenge powerful institutions publicly. Far from appearing defensive, the Spanish actor came across as calm and unwavering, framing the situation as a matter of conscience rather than career punishment. He has previously made it clear that he will not work with any film or television company that, in his view, justifies or supports what he describes as genocide in Gaza, arguing that such positions should have no place in the entertainment industry, or any industry at all. For Bardem, the issue extends well beyond a single studio or a short-term professional setback, touching instead on the moral responsibilities that come with creative influence.



Bardem explained that what concerns him is not being excluded by a major Hollywood player, but the broader question of ethical collaboration. According to the actor, the entertainment industry is entering a phase where silence is no longer neutral, and where creative partnerships are increasingly scrutinised for their political and moral implications.

He has been a vocal critic of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, repeatedly describing it as genocide, and has openly condemned companies he believes are complicit through financial or institutional support. Bardem was among the high-profile figures who signed a manifesto pledging not to work with organisations linked to what they describe as systemic oppression of Palestinians.



Reports suggest that this stance led to his inclusion on an internal Paramount blacklist, overseen by studio head David Ellison. While Paramount has not publicly commented, the alleged move has fuelled debate about freedom of expression in Hollywood and whether political activism now comes at a professional cost.



Bardem has been careful to clarify that the movement he supports is not directed at individuals, religions or national identities. Instead, he stresses that the focus is squarely on corporations and institutions that, in his view, enable violence and occupation. The manifesto he endorsed emerged last September under the banner of Filmworkers for Palestine. Inspired by historic cultural boycotts during apartheid-era South Africa, the initiative commits signatories to refusing collaborations with Israeli film bodies and companies they believe are linked to human rights violations.

More than 1,800 figures from across the global film industry have added their names, including Mark Ruffalo, Emma Stone, Joaquin Phoenix, Rooney Mara, Andrew Garfield, Yorgos Lanthimos and Guy Pearce. The growing list signals a significant shift in how openly political Hollywood creatives are willing to be.



As studios balance global markets, public image and internal dissent, Bardem’s case highlights a tension that is unlikely to disappear. Whether his stance reshapes industry norms or reinforces old power structures remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that for Javier Bardem, silence is no longer an option, and the consequences are a price he appears ready to pay.