Susan Sarandon: "Exiled From Hollywood For Speaking Out On Gaza"

Susan Sarandon Opens Up About Hollywood Blacklisting

The legendary Susan Sarandon, known for her powerful performances in movies like Thelma and Louise, has dropped a bombshell, claiming that her vocal stance on the Gaza conflict has led to her being blacklisted in Hollywood. Sarandon, who was once represented by United Talent Agency, found herself at the center of controversy after she publicly called for a ceasefire during the conflict.

Speaking at the prestigious Goya Awards in Barcelona, Sarandon revealed, “I was fired by my agency, specifically for marching and speaking out about Gaza, for asking for a ceasefire. It became impossible for me to even be on television. I don't know lately if it's changed. I couldn't do any major film or anything connected with Hollywood.”

Finding a New Stage in Europe

Now at 79, Sarandon is turning a new page by working in Europe, embracing roles that might not have been offered back home. She shared her recent experiences, saying, "I just did a film in Italy, and I did a play at the Old Vic (in London) for a number of months." Interestingly, she noted that the Italian director who recently hired her had been advised against it due to her outspoken nature. "He didn't listen, but they had that conversation," she added. Sarandon has found her niche in independent films, often working with directors making their debut.

Spain's Intellectual Freedom

Sarandon, who will soon receive the International Goya award honoring her illustrious career, expressed her admiration for Spain's progressive stance. "In a place where you feel repression and censorship, to see Spain and to see the president and what he says and the support that he's giving about Gaza, and to have actors like Javier Bardem come forward with such a strong voice, is so important to us in the United States," she stated emphatically.

The Oscar-winning actress emphasized how inspiring Spain's clear moral stance on such issues is, especially in contrast to what she perceives as a more muted response in the United States. "I can't tell you, when you turn on the TV and you see how strong Spain is, and how clear that you are morally about these issues, it makes you feel less alone, and it makes you feel that there is hope, because you just don't hear that on TV in the US," she noted passionately.

A Call Back to Love and Positivity

Reflecting on societal issues beyond her career challenges, Sarandon lamented the prevailing negativity in today's culture. She urged a return to the loving ethos of the 1960s, quoting the Beatles, "The love you take is equal to the love you make." Sarandon believes that amidst the negativity and greed, it’s crucial to hold onto love and possibility – a beacon of hope that could guide us once the chaos subsides.