George Clooney throws his support behind 'good man' Mark Ruffalo
The 65-year-old A-lister stood up for free speech and the embattled 58-year-old Avengers star who was also recently defended by 170 Jewish entertainment figures in an open letter.
TL;DR
- George Clooney publicly defended Mark Ruffalo against accusations of antisemitism.
- Clooney stressed the importance of free speech, calling the criticism of Ruffalo 'ridiculous'.
- Ruffalo opposed a merger between Paramount and Warner Bros Discovery, linking it to military contracts and executive actions.
- Paramount accused Ruffalo of using 'antisemitic tropes' in his criticism.
- Over 170 Jewish entertainment figures signed an open letter supporting Ruffalo.
- The letter stated that pointing out connections between events in Gaza and Hollywood is the 'essence of Jewish ethical duty' and not antisemitism.
- Ruffalo has insisted his criticism is not directed at Jewish people but at specific actions and corporate practices.
- The merger faces scrutiny due to potential job losses and the consolidation of media power.
- Concerns have been raised about the Ellisons' business dealings, including Oracle's technological assistance to Israel.