George Clooney Defends Mark Ruffalo Amid Antisemitism Dispute

George Clooney has defended Mark Ruffalo’s right to speak freely after Paramount accused the actor of using antisemitic tropes in criticism of Oracle and Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.

“I support Mark Ruffalo’s ability to speak freely,” Clooney told Variety. “It’s ridiculous. We’re not going to ban speech. I believe in free speech even when I completely disagree with it.”

Ruffalo, known for playing the Hulk in Marvel films, has criticized Oracle over its technology contracts with the Israeli government. In a September social media post, he accused Oracle of helping support Israel’s military operations in Gaza and described the situation as genocide and apartheid.

Paramount responded on Aug. 21, saying it was “troubled when antisemitic tropes are invoked” in what it characterized as a business dispute. The company also said it does not tolerate prejudice against anyone.

Ruffalo rejected the accusation, arguing that criticism of Israeli government policies, military contracts or corporate executives is not the same as criticism of Jewish people.

Clooney also addressed Paramount’s proposed $111 billion merger with Warner Bros., which Ruffalo has opposed. Clooney said he was concerned about large companies consolidating, particularly because mergers can lead to significant job losses.

Ruffalo received further support on Sept. 1, when more than 170 Jewish artists signed an open letter defending him. The signatories included actors Hannah Einbinder and Wallace Shawn, filmmaker Joel Coen and screenwriter Miranda July.

The letter criticized what it called the “weaponization” of antisemitism accusations against people speaking about Israel, Palestine and civil liberties.