Mark Ruffalo Rejects Antisemitism Accusation, Defends Criticism of Paramount-WBD Deal

Mark Ruffalo has rejected accusations of antisemitism after Paramount criticized his comments about the company’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery.

In a statement on X, the actor said his criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Oracle’s technology contracts, and executives involved in supplying technology to Israel should not be interpreted as hostility toward Jewish people. Ruffalo said he has “deep love and respect” for Jewish people and that his views are rooted in his political beliefs.

Ruffalo also criticized the proposed $111 billion Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery deal, arguing that it could threaten editorial independence and the jobs of thousands of workers. He called for greater scrutiny of Oracle’s government contracts and foreign investment connected to the deal.

Paramount had accused Ruffalo of invoking “antisemitic tropes” after he shared a video of Oracle executive vice chair Safra Catz discussing technology supplied to the Israeli military. The company said it opposed prejudice of any kind.

Ruffalo has previously campaigned against the takeover with attorney Norm Eisen and other advocacy groups, arguing that the merger could harm competition and the broader creative industry. The dispute comes as Paramount Skydance continues its effort to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery after Netflix withdrew from the bidding.