Spanish actor Javier Bardem says ‘narrative changing’ on Gaza and Palestine

Spanish actor Javier Bardem said his outspoken criticism of Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza has not harmed his career, telling AFP he is “getting more work than ever”.

The Oscar-winning star said the shift reflects what he described as a broader change in public discourse around the conflict.

At February’s Academy Awards, Bardem used his stage time to declare: "No to war and a free Palestine."

Others in the industry have reported a different experience. Actress Susan Sarandon and several lesser-known figures have said they faced fewer opportunities after criticising Israel’s actions in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

"I think it's important to be able to express your point of view, knowing that there will be people who agree and people who don't," Bardem said at the Cannes Film Festival, where he is promoting a new film.

"It doesn't worry me because I'm lucky enough to be able to work. I'm lucky to be in a place where I can express myself knowing that I have job offers. I imagine there are people who are more afraid they won't get called because of it, but that's not my case," he added.

"In fact, it's the opposite, they're calling even more because the narrative is changing," Bardem said. "Now it's no longer as controlled by those who have always controlled it.

"Instead we now understand that there are consequences when you support or justify a genocide like the one that is happening. And society knows that," he said.