Throughout the history of awards shows, celebrities have often used their brief moments
on stage during acceptance speeches to address pressing political and social issues. These speeches serve as a platform for raising awareness about causes they are passionate about, sometimes sparking widespread discussions or controversy.
One of the most memorable instances of activism at an awards ceremony was when Marlon
Brando refused to accept his Best Actor Oscar for The Godfather. In his place, Native American activist Sacheen Littlefeather took the stage to denounce Hollywood’s misrepresentation of Indigenous people. Although questions have arisen regarding her background, the speech brought attention to the discrimination faced by Native Americans in the film industry.
In the years that followed, other actors continued to use their voices for advocacy. Susan Sarandon and Tim Robbins took the stage to address the stigma surrounding HIV, urging the U.S. government to acknowledge that the virus was not a crime. Meanwhile, Halle Berry made history with her Monster’s Ball win, dedicating her moment to uplifting women of color in Hollywood. While many of these speeches were met with applause, some topics have remained so divisive that celebrities often choose to stay silent to avoid controversy.
A recent and highly sensitive topic that has left many public figures hesitant to speak out is the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Following the Hamas-led attack in October 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 1,195 people in Israel and the capture of 251 hostages, Israel launched a military response that has since led to the deaths of nearly 50,000 Palestinians. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ruled that Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories is unlawful, demanding the evacuation of settlements in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. Amnesty International has also accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. Despite these rulings and calls for a ceasefire, many celebrities have refrained from making direct statements on the issue, likely fearing backlash from various political and industry figures.
However, some Hollywood stars have chosen to take a stand by wearing pro-Palestine pins at high-profile events. Actors such as Nicola Coughlan, Ramy Youssef, Mark Ruffalo, and Guy Pearce have been seen displaying their support at red carpet appearances. At the January premiere of The Brutalist, Pearce was questioned about the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the ceasefire negotiations. Responding to a mention of his “Free Palestine” badge, he stated that he hoped for a future where all Palestinians could return to their homes and live freely. He also broadened the conversation by speaking about the importance of advocating for marginalized communities, including people living under occupation or those affected by climate change.
Pearce’s stance has led to speculation about whether he will use the Oscars stage to voice his views if he wins the Best Supporting Actor award. Public relations expert Jane Hunt believes that his outspoken nature could encourage other celebrities to step forward and use their platforms for political advocacy. She notes that in the digital age, statements made by celebrities often go viral, leading to widespread engagement across social media. If Pearce were to speak out on Palestine at the Oscars, it could break the silence that has persisted at major award shows, such as the Golden Globes.
Hunt also highlights how a single speech at an event as prominent as the Academy Awards could set off a larger movement, potentially pressuring Hollywood and policymakers to address ongoing humanitarian crises. The influence of celebrities extends beyond the red carpet, with their words having the power to shape public discourse and inspire action.
Meanwhile, ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas remain uncertain. Hamas has stated that it has no plans to extend the initial phase of the ceasefire, while Israeli officials have engaged in discussions with mediators from Qatar and the United States. As part of the first phase of the agreement, Hamas released 33 Israeli hostages and five Thai nationals in exchange for approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. However, allegations have surfaced that Israel has violated the terms of the ceasefire on multiple occasions. The most recent dispute arose when Israel halted the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza following the expiration of the initial phase of the agreement.
With no clear resolution in sight, the conflict continues to dominate global discussions. As tensions persist, it remains to be seen whether more public figures will speak out or whether the fear of backlash will continue to stifle conversations in Hollywood. For now, those who do choose to make a statement, whether through fashion or speeches, risk both praise and criticism as they navigate the complexities of activism in the entertainment industry.
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